Dog attacks and bites are not rare occurrences in the United States. Every year, thousands of people are injured by dogs, often in situations that were preventable with responsible pet ownership and proper precautions. Recent data shows that Chicago ranked third among all U.S. cities for dog attacks on postal workers in 2024, underscoring how common and serious these incidents can be even in major urban centers.
This blog provides a detailed look at the statistics behind Chicago’s ranking, the broader context of dog attacks, contributing factors, and legal implications.
Chicago’s High Ranking for Dog Attacks: Breaking Down the Numbers
According to the United States Postal Service (USPS) dog bite incident data for 2024, Chicago was ranked third among all U.S. cities for the number of dog attacks on postal workers:
- Chicago, Illinois: 57 attacks, placing it behind Los Angeles (77) and Houston (65).
- Cities such as St. Louis, Cincinnati, and Dallas also appear in the top rankings but with fewer incidents.
These figures reflect dog attacks on USPS workers specifically, not the totality of dog bite incidents citywide, but they serve as a meaningful indicator of the scale of canine-related injuries in Chicago and other major cities. The USPS reported that nationwide there were more than 6,000 dog attacks on postal employees in 2024, a number that has climbed in recent years and reflects broader trends of dog-related incidents.
In addition to city rankings, the USPS data also places states by total bite incidents:
- Illinois ranked fourth among all U.S. states with 344 dog bite incidents, following California, Texas, and Ohio.
This state-level data further underscores that Illinois residents face a significant risk of dog bites and attacks relative to many other parts of the country.
Understanding Dog Attacks: What the Statistics Don’t Always Show
The USPS ranking focuses on dog attacks against mail carriers, but this represents only one subset of dog bite incidents. Across the U.S., dog bites affect residents, visitors, delivery workers, children, and adults in countless contexts. National statistics indicate that:
- Dogs bite approximately 4.5 million people in the United States each year.
- Around 800,000 of those bite incidents require medical treatment.
- On average, about 1,000 people are treated daily in emergency departments for dog bite injuries.
Though Chicago’s USPS ranking is specific to postal workers, the data highlights how frequently dogs can attack even well-trained professionals performing routine duties.
Why Chicago’s Ranking Matters
Chicago’s third-place ranking for dog attacks on postal workers points to broader public safety and pet ownership concerns:
- Urban environments feature a mix of residential and business properties where dogs and walkers, delivery personnel, and visitors frequently interact.
- Large cities often have higher numbers of dog owners and pets, increasing the likelihood of both responsible interactions and, unfortunately, dangerous encounters.
- Postal data specifically captures attacks that are formally reported and recorded, which may under-represent the total number of dog bites citywide.
Dog attacks are not limited to postal workers; individuals of all ages and occupations may experience bites, ranging from minor punctures to severe injuries requiring medical care.
Common Locations and Scenarios for Dog Attacks
Dog bites and attacks can occur in a variety of settings. Some of the most common include:
- Front yards and porches where dogs are left unsupervised or improperly restrained
- Sidewalks and shared neighborhood spaces with off-leash dogs
- Apartment and multi-unit dwellings without secure containment for pets
- Public parks and green spaces where interactions between dogs and people are frequent
Understanding where and how these incidents occur can help communities target prevention efforts and encourage responsible behavior among pet owners.
The Human Impact of Dog Bites
Dog attacks can have profound effects on victims beyond immediate physical injury:
Physical Consequences
- Puncture wounds, lacerations, and bruising
- Deep tissue damage or nerve injury
- Scarring and risk of infection
- Need for stitches, surgery, or prolonged medical treatment
Emotional and Psychological Effects
- Anxiety or fear around dogs
- Post-traumatic stress symptoms
- Reluctance to engage in outdoor activities or interact with pets
Financial Burden
- Medical bills and ongoing care expenses
- Lost income due to time away from work
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
The consequences of a dog attack can be long-lasting, affecting victims’ quality of life and financial stability.
Legal Responsibility and Dog Bite Claims
In Illinois, dog owners can be held responsible for injuries their pets cause under certain circumstances:
- Illinois follows a strict liability standard for dog bite cases: owners may be liable for injuries their dogs inflict regardless of prior aggressive behavior or warning signs.
- To recover damages, the victim generally must show they were lawfully present at the time of the incident and not provoking the dog.
Liability may extend beyond individual owners to include property owners or others who failed to control a known dangerous animal.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite
If you are bitten or attacked by a dog in Chicago, or anywhere in Illinois, the actions you take immediately after can affect your health and legal case:
Medical and Safety Steps
- Seek medical attention immediately, even for seemingly minor wounds.
- Follow all medical advice and complete recommended treatment.
- Document injuries with photographs and detailed notes.
Documentation and Reporting
- Report the incident to local authorities or animal control.
- Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Record the dog owner’s name and address if possible.
Legal Considerations
- Do not speak to insurance companies without legal guidance.
- Preserve all records related to medical care, expenses, and lost wages.
- Consult an experienced Chicago dog bite attorney to evaluate your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago Dog Attacks
Q: Why is Chicago ranked so high for dog attacks?
A: Chicago’s ranking is based on reported dog attacks on postal workers, where the city recorded 57 attacks in 2024, placing it third nationwide among reporting cities.
Q: Does this data include all dog bites in Chicago?
A: No. The USPS data reflects attacks on postal workers. Other dog bite incidents involving residents, pedestrians, and visitors are not captured in this ranking. However, the USPS figures serve as a meaningful indicator of the prevalence of dog attacks in urban areas.
Q: Are dog bites common in Illinois overall?
A: Yes, Illinois ranked fourth among all states for dog bite incidents in 2024, with 344 reported cases in the USPS data.
Q: Who is liable for a dog bite under Illinois law?
A: Illinois generally holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries their dogs cause, provided the victim was lawfully present and not provoking the animal. Liability may extend to other responsible parties in certain circumstances.
Q: What damages can I recover after a dog attack?
A: Victims may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, scarring, and other losses. An attorney can evaluate your case and help determine appropriate damages.
Contact the 5-Star Rated Chicago Dog Bite Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates
Dog attacks are a serious public safety concern that can result in long-term physical, emotional, and financial harm. Chicago’s position as one of the top U.S. cities for reported dog attacks on postal workers, coupled with broader state and national trends, highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and accountability when negligence causes injury.
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite or attack in the Chicago area, do not navigate the aftermath alone. Contact John J. Malm & Associates today for a free consultation. Our experienced Chicago dog attack attorneys will review your case, protect your rights, and pursue the full compensation you deserve. You should not have to bear the burden of someone else’s negligence, let us help you move forward with confidence.