Chicago Dog Attack Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Chicago Bike Accident Law Firm Helping Cyclists Injured in Dog-Related Crashes

Our Chicago dog attack bicycle accident lawyers understand how a bike ride can quickly turn dangerous when a dog strikes. Victims often suffer serious injuries, including deep wounds and fractures, leading to expensive medical bills and long recovery times.

If you were injured in a bike crash caused by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation. Book a free consultation with Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers to discuss your legal options.

Some of our successful bike accident case settlements include:

• $170,000 for a woman riding her bicycle with her children who lost control and fell after being startled by a young Portuguese Water Dog.
• $199,000 for a child injured when a vehicle backing out of a driveway struck him in his neighborhood.
• $350,000 for a cyclist who suffered injuries after being struck by a hit-and-run driver.

How Dog Attacks Cause Bicycle Accidents

Attacks by dogs can cause bike crashes in several ways. A dog may chase a cyclist, causing panic and loss of control. Some dogs bite at a rider’s legs, leading to falls and other injuries. Others run directly into the bike’s path, creating a sudden obstacle that results in a collision.

Even if no bite occurs, an animal attack can still cause serious harm. In these cases, the dog owner may be liable for the accident and resulting injuries.

Illinois Animal Control Laws

Illinois law holds owners responsible for injuries their pets cause, including those suffered in a bicycle accident. Whether through a bite or another type of animal attack, injured cyclists have legal rights to recover damages.

The Illinois Animal Control Act

The Illinois Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5/) makes owners liable for injuries their dogs cause, even if the dog has never shown aggression before. Under this law, a person injured by a dog—whether through a bite or by being knocked off a bicycle—can recover damages if:

• They were lawfully in a public or private space.
• They did not provoke the dog.
• The dog’s actions directly caused their injuries.

This law protects bite victims and others injured by uncontrolled animals.

Strict Liability for Dog Owners in Illinois

Illinois follows a strict liability rule for dog-related injuries. Unlike some states that require proof of an owner’s negligence, Illinois law (510 ILCS 5/16) holds the owner responsible regardless of prior knowledge of aggression.

If a dog causes a bicycle accident, the owner is liable for the resulting injuries and medical expenses. This applies whether the attack happens in a public space or private property where the injured person was legally allowed to be.

“Vicious Dog” Designations and Restrictions

Illinois law (510 ILCS 5/2.19b) defines a vicious dog as one that seriously injures or kills a person without justification. Once designated as vicious, the dog must be securely confined and cannot be sold or transferred.

Chicago has additional restrictions for aggressive dogs, including mandatory muzzling and special containment requirements. In some cases, an owner may be ordered to euthanize a dog deemed too dangerous. Violating these rules can result in significant fines and legal consequences.

Chicago Leash Laws and Ordinances

Chicago requires all dogs to be on a leash no longer than six feet in public. This ordinance (7-12-030) helps prevent bike crashes and other incidents caused by uncontrolled animals.

Owners must also ensure their pets are under control on private property, particularly if they have a history of aggression. Violations of leash laws can result in fines, and if an unleashed dog causes injuries, the owner may be liable for damages.

Exceptions to Strict Liability

A dog owner may not be held liable if:

• The injured person was trespassing at the time of the attack.
• The person provoked the dog by teasing, hitting, or threatening it.

In these cases, a personal injury lawyer can evaluate the details and determine if legal action is possible.

Common Scenarios in Dog Attack Bicycle Accidents

Dog attacks can occur in different ways, but all pose serious risks to cyclists. Whether a dog chases, bites, or runs into a rider’s path, these incidents can lead to severe injuries and legal claims against the owner.

Dog Chasing a Cyclist and Causing a Crash

An aggressive dog may instinctively chase a moving bicycle, forcing the rider to swerve, brake suddenly, or lose balance. In some cases, cyclists crash into objects, fall into traffic, or suffer injuries trying to escape. Even if the dog never makes physical contact, the attack can cause serious harm.

Dog Running into the Path of a Cyclist

Dogs can unexpectedly dart into bike lanes or streets, leaving cyclists no time to react. A sudden obstacle like this can cause a direct collision, throwing the rider off their bike. Even a small domestic animal can create a dangerous situation, leading to broken bones, head injuries, or worse.

Dog Biting a Cyclist While Riding

Some dog attacks involve direct bites while the cyclist is moving. A dog may lunge and bite a rider’s leg, arm, or even bike, causing an immediate loss of control. These bites can lead to serious injuries, deep wounds, and even infections, making seeking medical attention immediately critical.

Dog on an Extended Leash Tripping a Cyclist

Retractable leashes and long leads can become hazards when dog owners fail to control their pets. If a dog suddenly crosses a bike path on an extended leash, it can trip a cyclist, causing a dangerous crash. The owner and their homeowner’s insurance policy may be responsible for damages in these cases.

What to Do Immediately After a Dog Attack Bicycle Accident

Prioritizing safety, gathering evidence, and reporting the incident are all important after a dog attack. These steps can help protect your health and strengthen your legal claim if you pursue compensation.

Prioritize Safety: Get Away from the Dog and to a Safe Location

Your immediate priority is to protect yourself from further harm. If a dog is aggressive, move away carefully to avoid additional injuries. Try to get to a safe location, such as behind a fence, inside a building, or on higher ground where the dog cannot reach you. If you are on the road, watch for traffic while moving away.

Assess Your Injuries and Call 911 if Necessary

Check yourself for injuries, including bites, broken bones, or head trauma from the fall. Even if your wounds seem minor, seek medical attention immediately since dog bites can lead to infections or nerve damage. If you are bleeding heavily, feel dizzy, or cannot move, call 911 right away for emergency medical care.

Try to Identify the Dog and Owner (If Possible and Safe)

If it is safe, look for identifying details about the dog and its owner. Note the dog’s breed, color, and any tags. If the animal owner is present, ask for their name, contact information, and homeowners insurance policy details. This information will be crucial for filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.

Gather Witness Information

If anyone saw the bicycle accident, ask for their name and phone number. Witnesses can confirm how the dog attack happened and whether the owner knew their dog was aggressive. Independent statements from bystanders can help strengthen your case if the dog owner denies responsibility.

Document the Scene

If possible, take photos or videos of your injuries, the dog, the accident scene, and any damage to your bike. If no owner is present, document the area where the dog attack occurred, including any broken fences or lack of leash control. This evidence can help your personal injury lawyer build a strong case.

Report the Incident to Animal Control and the Police

Notify animal control and local law enforcement about the dog attack. Chicago Animal Care and Control can check if the dog has a history of aggression or if it is vaccinated for rabies. The police report will provide an official record of the incident, which can be helpful when seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Why You Need a Chicago Dog Attack Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a dog attack while riding your bike, hiring a bike accident lawyer in Chicago can make a significant difference in your case. These incidents involve unique legal and insurance challenges, and having an experienced attorney ensures you protect your legal rights and recover fair compensation.

Complex Illinois Dog Bite and Animal Control Laws

Illinois follows strict liability under the Illinois Animal Control Act, meaning an owner is responsible for injuries caused by their dog, even if they had no prior knowledge of aggression. However, exceptions apply, such as trespassing or provocation, which a personal injury lawyer can evaluate.

Investigating the Incident and Gathering Evidence

Proving liability requires strong evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and animal control reports. A lawyer will collect and present this information to support your claim.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Many dog bite victims seek compensation through homeowners insurance or other insurance coverage. Insurers often try to minimize payouts, but an attorney negotiates for the full amount you deserve.

Maximizing Your Compensation

A bike accident can lead to high medical expenses, lost wages, physical therapy, and pain and suffering. A lawyer ensures you pursue the maximum compensation available for your injuries.

Consult a Chicago Dog Attack Bicycle Accident Attorney Near You!

If you were injured in a dog attack while cycling, Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers can help. Our experienced attorneys understand Illinois law and fight to hold owners accountable.

Our dog bite attorneys have successfully handled personal injury cases involving bicycle crashes, securing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

We offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.Call us at (888) 424–5757 or fill out our contact form to book a free consultation and get started with the legal process.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.