Скачать или смотреть Woman Receives $500,000 Settlement After Neighbor's Pit Bull Attacks Her on Her Own Front Porch

In this video, we break down how John J. Malm & Associates secured a $500,000 settlement for an Illinois woman who was violently attacked by a loose pit bull in her own front yard, and how doorbell camera footage became critical evidence in proving liability.

Residents across Illinois should be able to step outside their homes without fear of serious injury. In this case, that sense of safety was shattered in seconds when a neighbor’s pit bull slipped free from its leash and attacked without warning. As the woman attempted to protect her small dog and retreat into her home, the pit bull repeatedly jumped, bit, and ultimately clamped onto her arm with enough force to fracture the bone.

The entire attack was captured on the homeowner’s Ring doorbell camera, clearly showing the dog escaping control, charging the victim, and violently attacking her on her own property. The footage left no doubt about what happened and became a cornerstone of the case.

As Illinois dog bite lawyer, John J. Malm, explains: “Pit bull attacks are often catastrophic because of the strength and determination of these animals once an attack begins. The damage can be life changing in a matter of seconds, which is why owners must exercise the highest level of caution and control.”

The victim in this case was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with a comminuted displaced fracture, deep soft tissue damage, and crush injuries consistent with a severe dog attack. She underwent emergency surgery, remained hospitalized for several days, and later required ongoing medical care, physical therapy, and orthopedic follow-up. Despite treatment, she continues to experience lasting pain, stiffness, scarring, and emotional trauma.

Attorney Marilynn Frangella, working with the firm’s experienced dog bite litigation team, led a detailed investigation that included analyzing video evidence, medical and surgical records, injury photographs, witness testimony, and reports from animal control and local authorities. This comprehensive approach allowed the firm to clearly demonstrate that the dog was not under control, the attack was unprovoked, and the victim was lawfully on her own property.

During negotiations, the homeowner’s insurance carrier was confronted with indisputable evidence of fault and a full accounting of the long-term impact of the injuries. The case ultimately resolved with a $500,000 settlement, compensating the victim for medical expenses, future care, permanent scarring, functional limitations, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

This case also highlights the growing importance of doorbell and home security camera footage in dog attack claims. Video evidence often prevents insurers from disputing liability or shifting blame and allows attorneys to present a clear, unbiased account of how an attack occurred.

Although any dog can bite, pit bull attacks frequently result in more severe injuries due to the breed’s strength and persistence. These cases require experienced legal representation, detailed medical documentation, and a litigation team capable of handling high-stakes injury claims.

John J. Malm & Associates is a team of six award-winning Illinois dog bite attorneys with more than 95 years of combined experience representing victims of serious animal attacks. The firm has recovered more than $100 Million for our clients.

With offices in Naperville and St. Charles, the firm represents injured dog bite victims throughout Illinois.

If you or a loved one was injured in a dog or pit bull attack, contact John J. Malm & Associates for a free consultation. 844-MALM-LAW.