About Dangerous Dog Breeds
Any dog can be dangerous, but certain breeds of dogs are responsible for a larger number of dog bite-related injuries than others. According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control, the top 10 most dangerous dog breeds are:
- Pit bull-type
- Rottweiler
- German Shepherd
- Husky-type
- Malamute
- Wolf-dog hybrid
- Mixed-breed
- Chow
- Doberman
- Saint Bernard
Pit bulls and Rottweilers accounted for many more fatalities than any other breed. However, the study found that 25 breeds of dogs were involved in at least one dog bite-related fatality.
Blacklisting Dangerous Dog Breeds
Data about dangerous dog breeds has prompted some states and cities to adopt laws outlawing or restricting the ownership of dangerous breeds of dogs. Opponents of these breed-specific laws argue that it is not the breed, but how the dog is trained, treated and socialized that determines whether it may pose a danger to humans. Illinois law does not restrict the type of dogs citizens may own.
Homeowners’ insurance policies cover dog bite injury claims. In 2006, dog bites cost insurance companies $351.4 million, according to the Insurance Information Institute, up nearly 11 percent from the previous year. In an attempt to reduce these costs, insurance companies have blacklisted certain dangerous breeds of dogs. Insurance may cost more or be completely unavailable to those who own dangerous dog breeds.
Legal Help for Dog Bite and other Victims of Animal Attacks
No matter what type of animal injured you, the attorneys of Lane & Lane, LLC are here to assist you. Our personal injury lawyers are dedicated to helping dog bite injury victims and victims of other animal attacks recover the full amount of financial justice - the full, fair and complete compensation you deserve for the damages you have suffered. To arrange a free initial consultation, please contact us today.
Although our offices are centered in Chicago, we represent clients seriously injured by dog bites and animal attacks throughout Illinois.
