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The Michigan personal injury attorneys at Christensen Law have been advocating for dog bite victims since 1991. During this time spanning more than three decades, we have won financial recoveries for those harmed by those responsible for dog attacks.
A Detroit dog bite lawyer from our firm is ready to fight for compensation on your behalf today. Call Christensen Law today for your free consultation.
Can You File a Claim for a Dog Bite in Detroit, Michigan?
Yes, you can file a claim for a dog bite in Michigan. The state has a specific statute (MCL 287.351) that covers dog bite liability. The law follows a “strict liability” rule, meaning the dog owner is liable for damages caused by their dog biting someone, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of such behavior.
To file a dog bite claim in Michigan, you generally need to prove:
- You were bitten by the dog
- The bite occurred without provocation
- You were in a public place or lawfully on private property
You can file a claim with the dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance, or file a lawsuit in civil court. If you’re wondering if you have a valid claim after you or your child was bitten by a dog in Detroit, it’s a good idea to have a free case review with a Detroit personal injury lawyer.
Does Michigan Have a One-Bite Rule for Dog Attacks?
Michigan follows a strict liability statute for dog bites, not a one-bite rule. This is outlined in Michigan Compiled Laws Section 287.351. In Michigan, there is no “Free First Bite”:
Under Michigan law, dog owners are liable for injuries their dog causes, even if it’s the dog’s first time biting someone.
In Michigan, the dog owner is responsible for damages caused by their dog biting someone, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any aggressive tendencies. To hold the owner liable, the victim must prove:
- They were bitten by the dog
- The bite occurred without provocation
- They were in a public place or lawfully on private property
- The only major exceptions are if the victim was trespassing or provoked the dog.
This strict liability law generally makes it easier for victims to pursue claims, as they don’t need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. However, dog owners might still argue comparative negligence if the victim’s actions contributed to the incident.
How Much Can You Sue for a Dog Bite in Detroit, Michigan?
In Michigan, there’s no set limit on how much you can sue for a dog bite. The amount you can claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, how high your medical costs were, whether or not you missed work, if you were left with any scarring. The dog’s owners and insurance policy limits will also affect your claim’s value, as will any shared negligence.
Each case is unique, and settlements or judgments can range from a few thousand dollars for minor injuries to hundreds of thousands or even millions for severe cases with lasting impacts.
To get a more accurate estimate for your specific situation, you may want to consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in dog bite cases.
Damages a Detroit Dog Bite Lawyer Can Seek in a Claim
Our Detroit dog bite lawyers have seen the scarring, physical pain, and psychological distress that dog bite victims experience. Unfortunately, dog bites can have catastrophic consequences, with victims in Detroit suffering:
- Scarring and disfigurement: Craniomaxillofacial Trauma & Reconstruction notes that dog bites can cause “unpleasing scars” and severe disfigurement, particularly when bites are to the neck or face. You may require cosmetic surgery even for bite-related disfigurement on other parts of your body.
- Pain and suffering: The World Journal of Pediatric Surgery lists “long-term psychological stress” as a potential consequence of dog bites. You may also suffer self-esteem issues, generalized anxiety, fear of dogs, depression, physical pain, lost quality of life, and other types of pain and suffering because of your dog bite.
- Professional damages: Your dog bite injuries may prevent you from working, costing you income, earning power, and other professional benefits.
- Medical expenses: We’ll demand that those responsible for your dog bite cover all bite-related medical costs. If you need any rehabilitation for injuries, we’ll seek money to cover that as well.
Our attorneys have secured record-setting settlements and verdicts for clients in Detroit and throughout Michigan. We will seek to maximize the value of your financial recovery.
The Time Limit to File a Dog Bite Claim in Detroit, Michigan
In Michigan, the time limit to file a claim after a dog bite is three years from the date of the incident. This is known as the statute of limitations. Courts generally strictly enforce this time limit. If you try to file after the three-year mark, your case will likely be dismissed.
This limit applies to most dog bite claims, whether based on the strict liability statute or general negligence. So keep in mind that while you have three years to file, it’s in your best interest to start the process much earlier. This allows time to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and prepare a strong case if a lawsuit becomes necessary.
Why Dog Bite Victims in Detroit Rely on Christensen Law to Get the Money They Deserve
We’re not like most other law firms, and that’s a good thing. Our clients hire Christensen Law because:
- We LISTEN PROTECT & WIN: Our law firm’s ethos is rooted in empathy. We cannot serve dog bite accident victims properly unless we listen to their experiences. Before we start negotiating for the settlement you deserve, we will document your entire story, address your questions, and ensure that you’re heard.
- We focus on dog bite cases: Dog bite cases are one of our primary practice areas. Detroit has a particularly difficult problem with dogs and dog attacks, and our firm works to ensure that every dog bite victim gets justice.
- We have an office in Detroit and a legal team ready to meet your needs: We are proud to call Motor City home. With an office located in the city, we take pride in representing those in Detroit whose voices are often unheard. This includes dog bite victims, and it includes you.
- We work urgently to resolve your case (and get you compensation) as soon as possible: While we love serving clients in Detroit, we understand that you don’t want to wait for your compensation. Most dog bite accident victims want to get a fair financial recovery and move on with their lives. We understand this, so we’ll do everything we can to resolve your case as soon as possible.
- Your satisfaction and recovery are our priority: Our firm’s values include compassion, excellence, and stewardship. These values shine through in our unique brand of legal service. You won’t regret hiring Christensen Law, as we are a firm that puts the client first.
- We have handled thousands of cases, completed hundreds of trials, and recovered millions and millions for our clients. These are facts you can trust from a law firm you can trust.
To better understand what our firm is about, check out our Meet the Firm video. Lead attorney David Christensen has dealt with tragedy, and he understands how a dog bite can change your life in a second.
A Detroit Dog Bite Attorney Can Help You Move on From This Difficult Time
Having a personal injury lawyer represent your interests during a dog bite claim can significantly reduce your stress and workload. An attorney handles all aspects of the legal process. We navigate the complexities of Michigan’s dog bite laws, freeing you to focus on recovery.
Your lawyer acts as a buffer between you and the opposing party, handling potentially uncomfortable conversations and protecting you from making statements that could harm your case. We can accurately assess the full value of your claim, considering both current and future damages, to ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
By managing the claim process, responding to legal inquiries, and advocating on your behalf, a Detroit dog bite lawyer allows you to concentrate on healing while still pursuing fair compensation for your injuries.
Testimonials From Real Christensen Law Clients in Michigan
Our clients have no shortage of praise for Christensen Law:
- “I would highly recommend Christensen Law Firm to anyone looking for a personal injury attorney. Their staff is very friendly and easy to work with. They were able to answer all of my questions and concerns, and they always made me feel like they had my best interests at heart!” – Jelly Ann Candido
- “This law firm is fantastic. They are very helpful and insightful about different types of lawsuits and the best firm to call.” – Cassady Commette
These are just two of many rave reviews for our legal team serving Detroit. Don’t take it from us that Christensen Law fights tirelessly for our clients—take it from the clients themselves.
How a Detroit Dog Bite Lawyer from Christensen Law Will Fight for Your Settlement or Judgment
Our firm is very selective in which cases we accept. If we agree to represent you, expect to have the full force of Christensen Law behind your case.
Our dog bite case team in Detroit will:
- Identify the parties who are legally (and financially) responsible for your dog bite
- Calculate the cost of your damages
- Document your damages
- Lead settlement negotiations for you
- Complete a trial, if necessary
Our first priority is protecting you. Liable parties and insurance companies may try to blame you for the bite, claiming that you provoked the dog or failed to protect yourself. However, we can prove otherwise.
You don’t pay unless we win! We accept no upfront or out-of-pocket payment from you. Our firm will cover the cost of your case, and we’ll only get paid if you get the money you deserve.
What You Need to Know About Filing a Claim When a Child Is Bitten By a Dog in Detroit
Unfortunately, the victims of dog bites are often children, leaving parents wondering whether or not they should file a claim on your child’s behalf. Here’s what you need to know about filing a claim when a child is bitten by a dog in Michigan:
- The three-year time limit to file may be “tolled” (paused) until the child turns 18
- Child injuries may have long-term effects, potentially increasing compensation
- Courts consider a child’s age when determining if they “provoked” the dog
- Courts may require long-term payment plans in the form of structured settlements to protect the child’s interests
- Settlements for minors typically need court approval to ensure fairness
- The court may appoint a representative known as a guardian ad litem to protect the child’s interests
- A child’s testimony may be held to different evidentiary standards, which means it may be treated differently than an adult’s
When you’re filing a claim on behalf of a child, it should account for the potential of ongoing treatment as the child grows, as animal attacks can have long-lasting physical and emotional effects on children. Compensation in these cases can include the costs of tutoring or special education and compensation for the parents’ time off work to care for their child.
When You Are Bitten By the Dog of a Friend or Family Member, Do You Have to File a Claim?
Sometimes, the dog that bites and causes injuries and other damages belongs to a friend or family member. You may be hesitant to file a claim in these situations, but the truth is it’s best to let your Detroit dog bite attorney handle any potential case rather than feeling like you have no choice but to cover these costs yourself – which could range well into the thousands or more.
Your friend or family member’s homeowner’s insurance may cover any settlement, even if the animal attack did not happen on their property. Your injury attorney can tell you more about your legal options based on the unique circumstances of your case.
Exemplary Damages in Dog Bite Claims in Detroit
Michigan generally doesn’t allow punitive damages, which are damages that are typically ordered by a judge in cases where extreme negligence was shown. However, in Michigan, “exemplary damages” may be awarded in certain cases. These could include:
- Cases of egregious misconduct by the dog owner where the dog’s owner goes beyond mere negligence
- Cases where the owner knew the dog was dangerous and failed to take reasonable precautions
- Cases in which there were multiple instances of the same dog biting people
- Cases in which the owner repeatedly ignored leash laws and other animal control regulations
- Cases where the owner intentionally caused the dog to attack, especially if it was trained to attack
- Cases where the owner knowingly allowed a dangerous dog to interact with others without warning
- Cases of owners showing a complete indifference and reckless disregard for the safety of others
It’s important to note that while these factors might be considered, exemplary damages are not common in Michigan dog bite cases. Most claims focus on compensatory damages for actual losses and injuries.
Mistakes Your Detroit Dog Bite Lawyers Recommend You Avoid
Just as there are steps you can take after an animal attack to protect your claim’s value, there are mistakes you can make that can jeopardize your settlement or award – or result in its outright denial! Here’s a list of mistakes to avoid to protect the value of your Detroit dog bite claim:
- Failing to seek immediate medical attention: Don’t put off going to the hospital because you think you can shake it off. Delays can worsen injuries and weaken your claim.
- Not reporting the incident to authorities: Lack of official documentation can harm your case, so be sure to file an accident report.
- Neglecting to gather evidence at the scene: Photos, witness contacts, and details are crucial, so if you are able to do so be sure to collect as much proof as possible.
- Giving recorded statements to insurance companies without legal advice: When you’re giving recorded statements to the other party’s insurance company, your words might be used against you.
- Accepting a quick settlement offer: Early offers are often lower than what your claim may be worth. It may be tempting to settle for fast cash, but you might be left with less than you need to recover.
- Posting about the incident on social media: This can potentially damage your case, so no matter how much you want to share with your friends, do it in person.
- Failing to follow medical advice or treatment plans: This can be used to argue you’re not as injured as claimed, so be sure to show up to all of your follow-up appointments and follow the recommended treatment plan.
- Waiting too long to file a claim: Remember the three-year statute of limitations and file as soon as possible if you want to seek compensation.
- Not documenting all expenses related to the injury: Keep records of your medical bills, lost wages, and other costs to make it easier to prove your damages.
- Confronting or arguing with the dog owner: This can escalate tensions and complicate negotiations, so it’s best to let your Detroit dog bite lawyer do the talking.
- Downplaying your injuries: Let’s face it – for many of us, our first instinct after we are injured is to say, “I’m fine,” even if it’s not true. Be honest about the full extent of your physical and emotional trauma
- Failing to consider future medical needs: Some injuries may require ongoing treatment, so don’t forget to take your future treatment into account before settling.
- Not investigating the dog’s history: Previous incidents can strengthen your case, so it’s a good idea to investigate the dog’s history.
- Ignoring emotional or psychological impacts: Mental health effects are also compensable damages, so don’t hesitate to seek mental health treatment if you need it after an animal attack.
Even if you don’t initially think you’re going to file a claim, it’s best to follow this advice to protect any potential settlement or award if circumstances change and you decide to proceed with filing a case.
Call for a Free Consultation About Hiring a Detroit Dog Bite Lawyer From Our Firm
Suffering a dog bite can be traumatic. We want you to focus on your recovery while our experienced attorneys fight for a fair financial recovery. Our team passionately serves dog bite victims in Detroit, and a lawyer from our team will prioritize your case.
Start by discussing your dog bite and case with our team. Call Christensen Law today for your free consultation.
