Dog Bite Attorney

When do you need a dog bite attorney?

In Michigan, there is a specific statute that explains dog bite law. The Michigan dog bite statute can be found at MCL 287.351. There are three main points to understand from this law, they are:


  • Dog bites are a strict liability offense


It does not matter whether a dog has always been well behaved and never bitten or attacked anyone before. Dog owners are liable for the first attack or bite by their dogs. Some states have what is known as a “one-bite rule” where a dog is essentially allowed a first bite or attack before the dog owner can be held legally responsible. Michigan does not have a one-bite rule and courts award damages for first attacks.


  • The victim must be lawfully on the property where the attack took place


For a dog attack or bite victim to recover compensation under the Michigan dog bite statute, he or she must have legally been on the property where the attack took place. This means that dog bites on public property such as sidewalks and parks are actionable in court. If a victim was attacked on private property, then they cannot be a trespasser or be committing a crime at the time of the alleged dog attack to recover compensation.


  • Provocation is a defense


If someone has been attacked or bitten by a dog, then provocation is a legal defense. If the dog was provoked into attacking or biting the victim, then the victim could be denied compensation. Provocation of the dog does not have to be intentional, but the dog owner is required to show evidence of how his or her dog was provoked to avoid legal responsibility.


The Michigan dog bite statute is not the exclusive way to get compensation for any resulting injuries. A dog bite victim can file a negligence claim under state negligence law to be awarded damages. If you have been bitten or attacked by a dog, then you have three years from the date of the incident to file a claim against the dog’s owner. If you don’t file a claim within this period, then you will be barred from all legal recovery. There are some exceptions to this rule, but it is uncommon for a court to allow a dog bite claim past the three-year statute of limitations.

FAQs

Got a question? We’re here to help.

  • What are some common injuries that result from dog bites?

    Dog bites can result in both minor and serious physical injuries. Some of the most common injuries that result from a dog attack or bite include:

    • Scarring
    • Disfigurement
    • Lacerations
    • Nerve damage
    • Disease

    Dog attacks and bites also often result in psychological harm to the attack or bite victim. Dog attack victims often experienced flashbacks and can even suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 

  • What types of damages are available?

    Victims of dog bites can receive several types of compensation for their injuries and resulting harm. In Michigan, if someone has been attacked or bitten by a dog, they can receive both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are damages that can be easily calculated and include things such as:

    • Medical bills
    • Rehabilitation bills
    • Lost wages
    • Lost future earning potential

    Non-economic damages are not as easily calculated and often deal with the long-term physical and mental effects of an attack or bite. Non-economic damages include such things as:

    • Pain and suffering
    • Mental anguish
    • Disfigurement
    • Loss of consortium

    A court can determine what level of non-economic damages are appropriate for a dog attack or bite situation. Getting attacked or bit by a dog can be a traumatic experience and owning a dog opens you to potential liability for the dog’s actions. In either situation, make sure that you have experienced legal help to best protect your interests.


  • What should I do if I think I need a dog bite attorney?

    Finding a website like ours can be helpful for general research, but the information found here should never be a substitute for professional and experienced legal advice. If you have been bitten by a dog or are the owner of a dog who has been alleged to bite someone else, then it is a good idea to speak to an attorney right away. Make sure to collect any and all important ownership documents, emails, and any photos or witness statements regarding the alleged attack so you don’t miss any potential claims. Then make sure that you seek the advice of an experienced attorney to answer your legal questions. If you have legal questions, then call us so we can help!

ZEINEH LAW PROUDLY OFFERS A FREE CONSULTATION

If you are the victim of a dog bite anywhere in the state of Michigan, then it is important to speak to an experienced attorney immediately. At Zeineh Law, we are proud to offer FREE consultations to all prospective clients. If you are in the process of choosing your attorney or are looking for an honest assessment of your legal situation, then our attorneys are available to help you now. Call us at (517) 292-7000 or contact us online. Our advice is free, and our conversations will always be protected by the attorney-client privilege. Make your first choice towards victory with a consultation with an experienced attorney at Zeineh Law today.