EDWARDSVILLE – A Worden woman claims she was injured during an unprovoked attack by dogs in her neighborhood.
Plaintiff Janice L. Daube filed the lawsuit in the Madison County Circuit Court against defendants Sean and Erin Underhill, citing negligence in violation of the state's Animal Control Act.
According to the lawsuit, Daube was walking in her neighborhood on Oct. 13, 2020, when two dogs owned by the defendants suddenly and without provocation charged at her and attacked her. She claims the incident caused her to suffer permanent nerve damage and scarring.
The lawsuit alleges that before the incident, the dogs attacked other local residents. Daube claims the defendants should have known their dogs had a propensity to attack and injure people.
Daube claims she sustained severe and permanent bodily injuries, endured pain, suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement and disability, which will affect her ability to enjoy normal activities. The lawsuit states that Daube has incurred medical expenses and will continue to require the services of medical staff to recover.
Dabue alleges that under the Illinois Control Act, the owner of a dog is liable for injuries caused by the animal.
The plaintiff is seeking damages in excess of $50,000, plus court costs. She is represented in this case by attorney Edward J. Szewczyk of Pratt & Tobin, P.C. in East Alton.
Madison County Circuit Court case number 2022LA001270