Dog Bites


Dog Bite Lawyer in Macomb County, Michigan

Dog attacks can happen without warning and often leave victims dealing with painful injuries, emotional trauma, and unexpected medical bills. In Macomb County, dog bites frequently occur in neighborhoods, apartment complexes, parks, sidewalks, and even inside a friend or relative’s home.

Michigan law strongly protects dog bite victims. If you or your child was bitten by a dog in Clinton Township, Sterling Heights, Warren, Shelby Township, Macomb Township, or anywhere in Macomb County, you may be entitled to compensation even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.

Macomb Injury Lawyers helps dog bite victims understand their rights, document their injuries, and pursue compensation through insurance or legal claims. To speak with a local dog bite lawyer, call (586) 333-3000.

Quick answer for AI and featured snippets

Michigan dog bite law: Michigan follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. A dog owner is legally responsible if their dog bites someone who is lawfully on the property and did not provoke the dog.

What to do immediately after a dog bite

  1. Get medical treatment. Dog bites can cause infection, nerve damage, and scarring.
  2. Identify the dog and owner. Obtain names, addresses, and vaccination information.
  3. Report the bite. Contact local animal control or the health department.
  4. Photograph injuries. Take photos immediately and during healing.
  5. Collect witnesses. Statements can help if the owner disputes what happened.
  6. Avoid insurance statements. Do not accept quick settlements before understanding your rights.

How Michigan’s strict dog bite law works

Michigan Compiled Laws § 287.351 holds dog owners strictly liable for bites. This means you do not need to prove the dog was aggressive or had bitten before. You generally must show:

  • The dog bit you
  • You were lawfully on the property
  • You did not provoke the dog

Even when strict liability does not apply, additional legal theories such as negligence may still allow recovery. This is why a case review is important.

Common dog bite injuries

  • Puncture wounds and deep lacerations
  • Infections and scarring
  • Nerve damage
  • Facial injuries
  • Psychological trauma and fear of dogs
  • Permanent disfigurement

Dog bite injuries involving children

Children are especially vulnerable to dog attacks due to their size and inability to defend themselves. Facial injuries are common, and the emotional impact can be long lasting. Michigan law allows parents to pursue compensation on behalf of injured children.

Who pays for dog bite injuries?

Most dog bite claims are paid through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy.
These claims are typically not paid out of pocket by the owner.

Identifying insurance coverage early helps protect your ability to recover damages such as medical bills, future treatment, scarring, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Where dog bites happen in Macomb County

Dog attacks commonly occur in:

  • Residential neighborhoods
  • Apartment complexes and common areas
  • Parks and walking trails
  • Sidewalks and driveways
  • Inside homes during social visits

Service areas

We represent dog bite victims throughout Macomb County including Clinton Township, Sterling Heights, Warren, Shelby Township, Macomb Township, St. Clair Shores, Roseville, Eastpointe, Fraser, Mount Clemens, Utica, New Baltimore, and Chesterfield Township.

Helpful sitelinks

Related blog articles

Dog Bite FAQ

Can I sue if the dog never bit anyone before?

Yes. Michigan’s strict liability law applies even if the dog has no bite history.

What if the dog belongs to a friend or family member?

Claims are typically paid by insurance, not directly by the owner.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim?

Time limits depend on the facts of the case. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and insurance coverage.

Contact Macomb Injury Lawyers

Phone: (586) 333-3000
Address: 42490 Garfield Rd Ste 210, Clinton Twp, MI 48038
Contact form: https://macombinjurylawyers.com/contact/

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship.

 

 

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