We Know the Pain and Emotional Trauma of Dog Bites
If you’ve been injured in a dog bite incident in Michigan, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Dog attacks can cause serious physical and emotional trauma, and navigating the legal process to secure your rights can be overwhelming. With Michigan’s strict liability laws regarding dog bites, having an experienced dog bite accident lawyer by your side is crucial to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, contact us online, or give us a call at 616-649-1411 today.
Dog Bite Regulations for Michigan
- Strict Liability: Michigan follows a strict liability rule for dog bites, meaning the owner is liable regardless of the dog’s past behavior.
- Location Matters: The law applies if the bite occurs in a public place or lawfully on private property.
- Provocation: If the victim provoked the dog, the owner might not be held liable.
- Trespassing: Owners are not liable if the victim was trespassing on their property.
- Time Limit: Victims have three years from the date of the bite to file a lawsuit.
What to Do After a Dog Attack
After a dog attack, your immediate actions are crucial for your health and legal standing. First, seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, to prevent infection and document the incident. Report the attack to local animal control to create an official record. Gather evidence, including photos of injuries, contact information of the dog owner, and any witnesses. Finally, consult with a dog bite accident lawyer in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to understand your rights and potential compensation. For a free consultation, contact us online, or give us a call at 616-649-1411.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
- Puncture wounds
- Lacerations
- Infections
- Broken bones
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Nerve damage
- Emotional trauma
What Defense Arguments Can Dog Owners Use to Avoid Liability?
Dog owners may use several defenses to avoid liability in a dog bite case. The most common defense is provocation, arguing that the victim provoked the dog, leading to the attack. Another defense is trespassing, claiming that the victim was unlawfully on the property at the time of the bite. Additionally, owners might argue that the victim assumed the risk of being bitten by knowingly interacting with a potentially dangerous dog. Consulting with a knowledgeable dog bite accident lawyer in Grand Rapids, Michigan, like those at Holmes & Wiseley, P.C., can help you navigate these defenses and build a strong case. For a free consultation, contact us online, or give us a call at 616-649-1411 today!
Contact Holmes & Wiseley, P.C., for Your Dog Bite Case
Dog bite accidents can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. With Michigan’s laws favoring victims, it’s important to have an experienced dog bite accident lawyer in your corner to guide you through the legal process. At Holmes & Wiseley, P.C., we are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you recover the compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, contact us online, or give us a call at 616-649-1411 today!
Dog Bite Accidents in Michigan: FAQs
What Should I Do if the Dog Owner Is Uncooperative?
If the dog owner is uncooperative, document as much information as possible about the incident and contact local authorities to report the bite. An experienced dog bite accident lawyer in Grand Rapids, Michigan, can help you navigate the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.
Can I Sue for a Dog Bite if it Happened on Private Property?
Yes, you can sue for a dog bite that occurred on private property if you were lawfully present. Michigan’s strict liability law holds dog owners responsible for bites that happen in public places or when the victim is legally on private property.
How Much Compensation Can I Receive for a Dog Bite Injury?
The compensation for a dog bite injury varies based on factors such as the severity of the injury, medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Consulting with Holmes & Wiseley, P.C. can provide a clearer picture of the potential compensation in your case.
Are There Any Exceptions to Michigan’s Strict Liability Rule for Dog Bites?
Yes, there are exceptions to Michigan’s strict liability rule. If the victim provoked the dog or was trespassing at the time of the bite, the owner may not be held liable. It’s important to discuss your case with a dog bite accident lawyer in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to understand how these exceptions might apply.
For legal advice and assistance with your dog bite case, contact Holmes & Wiseley, P.C. today. Our dedicated team is here to help you every step of the way.