How a Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help You in Michigan
Legally Reviewed and Edited by: Terry Cochran
Dogs are often beloved companions, but even the friendliest can bite, causing serious harm. Each year, about 4.5 million people in the U.S. suffer dog bites, and in 2023, Michigan ranked 4th for dog bite claims. With 932 dog bite injury claims in Michigan that year, the average claim exceeded $69,000 to cover doctor’s expenses and other losses.
Dog bites can affect every part of your life, leaving behind physical pain and emotional trauma. You might be dealing with medical treatment, missed work during recovery, and lingering anxiety or PTSD that makes it difficult to move forward. This situation can raise questions about your rights, such as, “Can the dog’s owner be held responsible?” and “What options do I have to seek compensation?”
If you were attacked by a dangerous dog, a skilled Michigan dog bite lawyer from Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C. can explain your legal options and help you pursue financial support for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We provide compassionate guidance and negotiate to hold negligent dog owners accountable for the harm they’ve caused.
Michigan’s Dog Bite Laws: What Every Victim Needs To Know
Michigan’s strict liability rules provide clear guidance for dog bite victims regarding who is at fault when an attack occurs. Here’s a breakdown of the law:
| Key Point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Strict Liability for Owners | Michigan holds dog owners strictly liable if their dog bites someone, regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggression. Owners cannot argue they were unaware of the dog’s potential to bite. |
| Who Is Covered? | The law protects anyone bitten while lawfully on public or private property. This includes invited guests, postal workers, and others conducting lawful business. |
| Exceptions to Strict Liability | Provoking a dog by teasing, threatening, or harming it can prevent the owner from being held responsible. The same applies if someone is trespassing or on private property without permission. |
What Are Your Rights If You’ve Been Bitten By a Dog in Michigan?
You have specific rights under the state’s liability statutes if a dog attacks you in Michigan. They include:
- The right to hold the owner accountable. Michigan’s strict liability law allows you to file a claim against the dog’s owner if you were lawfully on public or private property at the time of the bite. You don’t need to prove negligence or prior knowledge of the dog’s aggression, as the owner is responsible for the harm caused by their dog.
- The right to seek compensation for damages. If a dog bite left you with medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other financial and emotional impacts, you can pursue compensation to cover these losses. This includes both immediate costs and long-term consequences of the attack.
The average claim for dog bites has risen 82.5% since 2015 to over $69,000 in 2023. An attorney can help you receive a maximum settlement covering all related expenses and the psychological impact of the attack.
- The right to file a claim regardless of who owns the dog. Many people injured by dog bites are harmed by animals they know in the homes of family members, friends, or neighbors. If this happens, you may worry about straining relationships; however, you have the right to file a dog bite claim with the owner’s insurance to cover the cost of medical care and other expenses.
Most policies cover between $100,000 and $300,000. This provides financial support for your recovery and helps avoid placing a financial burden on the dog’s owner if it’s someone you know.
- The right to legal representation. After a dog attack, you have the right to work with an attorney to protect your interests. A qualified dog bite lawyer can explain your legal options and help you file a claim with the owner’s insurance to pay for your medical care and other damages.
Steps To Take Immediately After a Dog Bite
A dog bite can be stressful, but taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and strengthen your legal case. Here’s what to do:
Clean and Treat the Wound
Dog bites can lead to serious infections like Capnocytophaga or rabies. Do the following to protect your health:
- Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible.
- Apply an antiseptic and cover the wound with a clean bandage.
- Seek medical attention to evaluate the injury and discuss vaccination needs.
Keep all medical records, such as doctor’s notes, hospital discharge papers, and receipts for prescriptions or treatments, to support any insurance claims or legal action you take.
Identify the Dog and Owner
Ask for the owner’s contact information and verify if the dog’s vaccinations, especially rabies, are current per Michigan law. If the owner isn’t available, try to gather details about the dog’s appearance, behavior, and where it was last seen.
Report the Incident
Notify local animal control or the police and file a formal report about the bite. This creates an official record of the incident, which can be crucial for addressing public safety concerns and supporting any legal claims you pursue.
Document the Scene and Injuries
Clear documentation establishes your case and provides essential evidence for a dog bite lawsuit. Collect the following:
- Take photos of your injuries from multiple angles as soon as possible
- Photograph the location of the incident and the dog if it is safe to do so
- Write down a detailed account of what happened while it’s still fresh in your memory
Consult a Dog Bite Attorney
Dog bites are traumatic events that can leave you with serious injuries like lacerations, broken bones, or disfigurement. Speak to an attorney as soon as possible so they can explain your rights, handle communication with insurance companies, and build your case.
Working with a team of qualified dog bite lawyers protects your rights while giving you the time and space to focus on your recovery.
Common Challenges in Dog Bite Cases
Unfortunately for dog bite victims, owners or their insurers often use tactics to minimize payouts or shift blame. You may face the following challenges when seeking a fair dog bite settlement:
- Blaming you for provoking the dog. They may claim you teased, threatened, or provoked the dog to avoid responsibility.
- Downplaying the severity of your injuries. Insurers might argue that your medical treatment or long-term recovery needs are unnecessary or exaggerated.
- Delaying the claims process. Prolonging the settlement process can pressure you into accepting a lower offer out of frustration or financial need.
- Questioning your legal status on the property. To avoid liability, they might claim you were trespassing or unlawfully present on private property.
- Disputing the dog’s involvement. Owners might dispute that their dog caused your injuries or claim another animal was to blame.
- Offering a lowball settlement. Insurers often begin with a low offer, hoping victims will accept it without seeking legal advice.
- Misinterpreting medical records. They may claim that your injuries, such as scars or mobility issues, were pre-existing or unrelated to the dog bite.
How a Dog Bite Lawyer Advocates for You
An experienced dog bite attorney in Michigan can provide invaluable support for dog bite victims after an attack. From building a strong case to negotiating with insurers, they handle the following tasks so you can focus on recovery: you can focus on recovery:
Investigate the Incident
Your attorney collects essential evidence, such as witness statements, medical records, and animal control reports. They build a case to establish the facts and demonstrate the owner’s responsibility under Michigan’s strict liability laws.
Communicate With Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when they attempt to reduce payouts. An attorney manages all communication, presents your claim effectively, and fights against low settlement offers.
Calculate Your Damages
An attorney assesses the complete extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost income, future treatment costs, and pain and suffering. They may collaborate with medical and financial experts to ensure your claim is thoroughly evaluated and nothing is overlooked.
Represent You in Court if Necessary
If the insurance company won’t settle for a fair amount, a dog bite attorney can help you take the case to court. They present your claim to a judge or jury, fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Offer Guidance and Support
Your attorney can connect you with resources like medical specialists or counselors to aid in your recovery. They also advise on key aspects of your case, such as avoiding social media posts that could hurt your claim or preparing for legal proceedings.
Case Studies: Real-Life Examples
Examining real-life cases demonstrates how dog bite laws have been applied in Michigan. These two examples highlight how the courts look at these cases and the challenges victims may face:
Thelen v. Thelen: Liability in a Family Setting
In Thelen v. Thelen, a six-year-old girl was bitten on the face by her father and stepmother’s cocker spaniel during a visit to their home. The case centered on whether Michigan’s dog-bite law could hold the dog’s owners responsible, even though they were family members.
The court decided that the family relationship didn’t prevent the child from filing a claim under Michigan’s strict liability law and ultimately held them responsible for the damages. This ruling shows that dog bite victims can pursue compensation for their injuries, even if the dog’s owner is a family member.
Brans v. Extrom: Unintentional Provocation
Kathleen Brans was bitten by her brother’s dog after she accidentally stepped on it while helping prepare for an event. The court determined that stepping on the dog caused the bite and ruled that the owner couldn’t be held responsible.
Under Michigan law, actions that unintentionally provoke a dog, like stepping on it, can excuse the owner from liability. This case shows how even accidental behaviors can play a role in determining whether the owner is at fault.
How To Choose the Right Lawyer
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, having knowledgeable legal support that understands Michigan’s laws is essential for protecting your rights. Here’s what to look for in an attorney for your claim:
Look for Experience in Dog Bite Cases
Choose an attorney with a proven record of handling dog bite claims under Michigan’s strict liability laws. Specialized experience helps address complex issues, such as determining liability and countering claims of provocation.
At Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C., we have extensive experience managing dog bite cases across Michigan. Our team gathers evidence, works with medical professionals to document injuries, and pursues maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Prioritize Clear Communication
Choose an attorney who takes the time to listen and provides clear explanations of your legal options. When dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite, having a lawyer who keeps you informed and addresses your concerns can offer peace of mind during a stressful time.
Our attorneys understand how overwhelming this experience can be. We are here to answer your questions, keep you updated on your case, and make sure you always know what’s happening and what to expect next.
Check for Resources and Connections
An attorney with access to medical experts and other resources can build stronger evidence for your claim. These connections are especially valuable when assessing injuries and calculating damages.
Eileen Kroll, a registered nurse and senior partner attorney at Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C., combines her medical and legal expertise to support your case. Eileen can evaluate the full extent of your injuries and work closely with medical experts to ensure every aspect of your recovery is considered when building your claim.
Review Testimonials and Case Results
Read reviews and testimonials to see how an attorney has helped others in similar situations. Checking case results and client feedback gives insight into their ability to handle dog bite claims effectively and compassionately.
At Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C., our history of successful case results speaks to our commitment to protecting victims. Many clients have shared how our work has made a meaningful impact on their recovery.
Get Experienced Legal Help for Your Dog Bite Case
Dog bites can leave lasting physical and emotional effects, and taking action quickly is critical for your health and claim. Work with an experienced attorney at Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C. to hold the dog’s owner accountable and get the resources you need to recover. Set up a free case evaluation, and let us use our experience and resources to get the maximum compensation you deserve for your recovery.
Our contingency fee basis means we only get paid if we win your case, so there is no financial risk to you to get started. Call our law firm today at 1-866-MICH-LAW and schedule your no-obligation, free case evaluation.
Disclaimer : The information provided is general and not for legal advice. The blogs are not intended to provide legal counsel and no attorney-client relationship is created nor intended.
