For many dog owners, their pet is a beloved member of the family. But there is one uncomfortable truth that cannot be ignored: When it comes to serious and fatal dog attacks, no breed is responsible for more injuries and deaths than pit bulls.
At John J. Malm & Associates, we have represented numerous clients who were left permanently disfigured, emotionally traumatized, or lost a loved one because of a violent pit bull attack. Time and time again, these cases share the same heartbreaking pattern — an irresponsible pit bull owner fails to control their aggressive dog, and an innocent person suffers devastating injuries.
The Statistics Don’t Lie: Pit Bulls and Severe Dog Attacks
While many dog breeds can bite, data consistently shows that pit bulls are responsible for a disproportionate number of serious and fatal attacks. According to a comprehensive study by DogsBite.org, between 2005 and 2021, pit bulls were responsible for:
– 66% of all dog bite-related deaths in the U.S.
– Over 570 deaths, despite making up only 6% of the total U.S. dog population.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have also acknowledged that pit bulls, along with Rottweilers, account for the majority of dog-bite fatalities.
What Makes Pit Bulls So Dangerous?
- Bite Strength and Mechanics: Pit bulls have an incredibly powerful bite, estimated at over 235 pounds of pressure per square inch (PSI). They tend to bite, hold, and shake, causing significantly more tissue damage.
- Tenacity and Fight Drive: Bred for bull-baiting and later dog fighting, pit bulls have a genetic predisposition toward tenacity and aggression.
- Attack Without Warning: Many attacks occur without provocation or warning.
- Relentless in Their Attack: Once a pit bull initiates an attack, it is difficult to stop.
Why Pit Bull Owners Often Fail to Prevent Attacks
The problem is rarely the dog alone — it’s also the irresponsible owner who fails to understand the power and risk associated with owning a pit bull.
Many of the cases we handle involve owners who:
– Let their pit bulls roam off-leash
– Fail to secure fences or kennels
– Ignore prior aggressive behavior
– Downplay or deny the danger their dog presents
The Devastating Injuries Pit Bulls Cause
Pit bull attacks are different from ordinary dog bites. They often result in:
– Severe facial and head injuries
– Nerve damage
– Amputations
– Permanent disfigurement
– Bone fractures
– Psychological trauma, especially in children
As Attorney John J. Malm explains:
“The injuries our clients have endured at the hands of an irresponsible pit bull owner are horrifying. Too often, these cases involve someone who failed to restrain their aggressive animal and failed to prevent a vicious attack. The loss, trauma, and physical damage suffered by our clients are life-changing and, in many cases, indescribable.”
The Law Is Clear: Owners Are Responsible
In Illinois, strict liability laws apply to dog attacks. Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, a dog owner is responsible for injuries caused by their dog regardless of whether the dog has shown prior aggression. If you are attacked by a pit bull in Naperville or somewhere else in Illinois, the owner is almost always legally responsible.
What You Should Do If You or a Loved One Is Attacked by a Pit Bull
If you or someone you care about is injured in a pit bull attack:
- Seek Emergency Medical Treatment
- Report the Attack to Local Authorities
- Document Your Injuries
- Identify the Dog and Its Owner
- Contact an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney
Common Defenses Insurance Companies Try to Use After a Pit Bull Attack
In pit bull attack cases, the dog owner’s insurance company may try to avoid paying full compensation by arguing:
– You provoked the dog.
– You were trespassing.
– You voluntarily assumed the risk.
– The dog had no prior history of aggression.
These defenses are often weak or irrelevant under Illinois law.
The Truth About “It’s How They’re Raised”
Pit bull advocates often claim that ‘it’s not the breed, it’s the owner.’ While responsible ownership matters, it is a fact that breed traits matter too. You cannot ignore that pit bulls were bred for strength, aggression, and fighting ability. Even well-socialized pit bulls can attack without provocation.
Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates for Your Naperville Dog Bite Case?
At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand how devastating and traumatic a pit bull attack can be. Our team of six award-winning Naperville dog attack attorneys has over 90 years of combined experience helping victims of serious dog attacks throughout Naperville, St. Charles, Chicago, and all of Illinois.
We have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of dog attack victims, including:
– Medical costs
– Pain and suffering
– Lost wages
– Disfigurement and disability
– Emotional trauma
If you or a loved one has been attacked by a pit bull, contact us today for a free consultation. We will fight to hold irresponsible pit bull owners accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.