Every dog, even a friendly one, has the potential to bite. When bites happen, victims can be left with severe injuries and significant medical expenses.
If you or your loved one were bitten, a dog bite lawyer serving Detroit, Michigan, can help you seek compensation from the animal’s owner. We can help you establish your right to money for your financial losses and negotiate for a full and fair recovery. Call us at 248-599-1607 or contact us online for a free consultation.
Dog bites may be more common (and costly) than you think:
If you or your loved one suffered a bite injury in the Detroit metro area, whether on private property or in a public area like Palmer Park or Riverside Park, you can pursue compensation for your financial losses. Our personal injury team can help you seek victim compensation.
Dog bites can cause severe injuries and side effects. The Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine warns that 20 percent of bite wounds become infected. In addition, even seemingly minor bites can cause:
Dog bites can cause severe injuries and side effects. Medical research shows that infection rates can range from about 5% to 20%, depending on the wound and treatment. Beyond infection, even seemingly minor bites can lead to:
Depending on the severity of the injury and risk of infection, treatment may require medical care and include:
If a dog bites you or a loved one, you should clean the wound immediately. Apply antibiotic cream or ointment and clean bandages. Watch the bite for signs of redness, swelling, or infection. If signs of infection occur, the skin is severely torn, the wound is a deep puncture, or bleeding will not stop, see a doctor.
You should also report your bite injury to DACC or the Detroit Police Department. Making a report establishes a record for your dog bite claim. Reporting can also help protect others from dangerous dogs and negligent pet owners.
Michigan’s dog bite laws hold owners strictly liable for dog bites. Strict liability means that the owner is financially responsible for the injury if a dog bites someone, whether on public or private property (including the dog owner’s property).
Strict liability differs from a one-bite rule or negligence-based claims. In states with a one-bite rule, victims must prove an owner knew or should have known about a dog’s potential to act viciously. Negligence-based claims allege the dog bite resulted from an owner’s careless or reckless behavior.
In Michigan, you need only prove you suffered a bite injury and have related losses. However, there are exceptions to strict liability, including:
For injuries for which owners are not strictly liable, victims may be able to pursue a claim based on negligence. Negligence may include violating leash laws or other Detroit Animal Control ordinances.
Many homeowners and renters insurance policies include coverage for dog bites. Victims can seek settlements or pursue losses with a personal injury lawsuit if insurance is not an option. In general, compensation may include:
Every personal injury case is different. Factors that may impact the compensation you can recover include:
Our attorneys can help you understand how Michigan’s personal injury and dog bite laws apply to your case and guide you through the process of seeking compensation. While you focus on healing or caring for your hurt loved one, our Detroit dog bite lawyers can:
When you work with our firm, we represent you like we would a member of our own family. We passionately advocate for everyday people from all walks of life and defend those who have been taken advantage of by insurance companies. We will look for personalized and effective solutions for your legal issue and stand by your side at every stage. We have experience with all types of injury cases, including catastrophic injuries and fatalities.
Do not wait too long to connect with a lawyer near you. Michigan law allows three years to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. If the statutory period runs out, the court will likely dismiss your case, even if you have a solid claim. You could end up with little or no compensation and no chance of taking legal action.
| Case | Settlement | Description |
|---|---|---|
“Confidential Dog Bite Case” | $325,000 | Michigan dog bite victim; details limited under confidentiality agreement. |
“Confidential Dog Bite Case” | $67,000 | Details withheld pursuant to confidentiality agreement. |
Getting fair compensation from insurance companies for an injury can be challenging. It can help to have a knowledgeable legal advocate on your side. If you or your loved one suffered a dog bite injury, Atnip & Associates, PLLC, can protect your rights and fight for your best interests.
We have over 85 years of legal experience in Michigan that we can put behind pursuing the compensation you deserve. Our dog bite lawyers serve Detroit and the Upper Peninsula. Call us today at 248-599-1607 or contact us online for a free consultation.
