How To Settle Your Dog Bite Claim With A Neighbor: Finding A Peaceful Solution Out of Court

📌 Settling a Dog Bite Claim Out of Court with a Neighbor | Illinois Dog Bite Attorneys Explain Your Rights

If you’ve been bitten by your neighbor’s dog, you may be wondering:
Can I recover compensation without ruining the relationship?
The answer is YES — and in this video, the experienced dog bite lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates explain how to do it.

🐾 Dog bites happen more often than you think.
According to the CDC, over 4.5 million dog bites occur in the U.S. each year.
Illinois ranks among the top states for dog bite insurance claims, with millions paid to victims every year.

When the dog belongs to a neighbor, the legal and emotional issues become even more complicated.
This video explains how to navigate a dog bite claim without damaging your relationship and how Illinois law protects your rights.

🔍 In This Video, You’ll Learn:

✅ How Illinois dog bite laws protect victims under strict liability
✅ Why you don’t need to prove a prior bite history
✅ How to document your injuries and protect your claim
✅ When and how to approach your neighbor
✅ How homeowners’ insurance usually covers dog bite claims
✅ Tips to settle your claim without filing a lawsuit
✅ How to keep the peace while pursuing compensation

📄 Outline:

1. Understanding Illinois Dog Bite Law

Illinois follows a strict liability rule under the Animal Control Act.

A dog owner is responsible if their dog bites someone without provocation.

Victims may recover damages for:

Medical expenses

Lost income

Pain and suffering

2. What to Do Immediately After a Dog Bite

Get medical care — Dog bites can lead to serious infections.

Document everything — Take photos, gather witness statements, keep medical bills.

Report the incident to local animal control and police.

Talk to your neighbor calmly — Approach the conversation with empathy and facts.

3. How Insurance Plays a Role

Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover dog bite liability.

According to the III, over $1.1 billion in dog bite claims were paid in 2022.

Filing an insurance claim (not a lawsuit) is often the best first step.

4. When Is a Lawsuit Necessary?

If your neighbor won’t cooperate or their insurer denies the claim.

Illinois law gives you two years to file a claim.

Many cases can be settled without ever filing in court.

5. How to Maintain the Relationship While Pursuing a Claim ✔️ Keep communication professional and respectful
✔️ Emphasize that insurance, not personal finances, will cover your claim
✔️ Stay focused on facts — avoid emotional confrontation
✔️ Consider mediation to avoid litigation

6. Preventing Future Dog Attacks

Encourage your neighbor to:

Secure their yard

Keep their dog leashed in public

Consider obedience training

Supervise their dog when guests are present

⚖️ Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates for Your Dog Bite Claim

At John J. Malm & Associates, we have over 90 years of combined legal experience representing dog bite victims throughout Illinois, including Naperville, St. Charles, Kane County, and DuPage County.

We understand that when the dog bite involves a neighbor, your goal is to get fair compensation — without unnecessary conflict.

Our award-winning team is here to guide you through the process, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you achieve a resolution that protects both your rights and your peace of mind.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation at 844-MALMLAW. We are ready to help.

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Видео How To Settle Your Dog Bite Claim With A Neighbor: Finding A Peaceful Solution Out of Court канала John J. Malm & Associates Personal Injury Lawyers
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