There are many risks when placing one’s possession in a storage locker. Will the stored items remain in good condition? Will there be damage from moisture or insects? One thing most people do not worry about is wildlife.

According to a lawsuit, when Michael Giangrand opened the door of his rental unit at a Public Storage facility in Schiller Park almost a year ago, he was attacked by a startled raccoon. He is now suing the California-based company in Cook County Circuit Court. The complaint did not specify what injuries he had suffered or what or damage the raccoon may have done to his property, but he is seeking at least $50,000 plus legal fees.

The suit for negligence claims, among other things, that Public Storage failed to warn customers that the storage units were not secure and that raccoons or other wildlife might gain access to the facility.

Though the situation has comic elements, animal attacks are no laughing matter and can be fatal, whether from a pet or a feral creature. Pedestrians bitten by dogs frequently bring civil actions seeking damages from their owners for violating the Illinois Animal Control Act. More seriously, in February, a kayaker drowned after being attacked by a swan. His wife brought a wrongful death action against a Des Plaines condominium complex that used swans to ward off geese.

If you have been injured by an animal or put at risk by any action, inaction, or negligent conduct of others, you should seek the compensation you deserve. The Chicago and Waukegan, Illinois, law firm of Ryan Ryan & Viglione has experience a wide range of personal injury cases, from animal bites to traumatic brain injuries to wrongful death. For a free consultation, call (847) 416-1989.