DOG BITE INJURY LAWYERS FAQ

How long do I have to pursue a claim for injuries sustained in a dog bite?
In Michigan, for adults, there is a three year statute of limitations. This means that you have 3 years from being bitten to resolve the claim or file a lawsuit. Minors have until one year after their 18th birthday to either resolve the claim or file a lawsuit.

Should I make a statement to the homeowner's insurance company if they call?
Although every case is different, you should likely not make a statement to any insurance representative without at least making a call to an attorney first. This would likely be the first contact that you have with the insurance company and it must be handled properly.

Should I seek medical attention after being attacked by a dog?
If you or someone that you know was injured, you should immediately seek proper medical attention. Often injuries can be minimized by seeking the proper medical attention. It is important that you give a thorough history regarding the accident to your doctor.

Special Circumstances Riding a Bicycle You are not just at risk of being bitten, but you also have a significant chance of being injured if you hit a dog as it runs in front of your bicycle. It is best to try to keep distance between yourself and any dogs

I was watching a dog for someone and he bit the postman, am I liable?
Some states, in some instances, have ruled that people who only keep or care for a dog will not be liable for all dog bites occurring during their care of the dog. The actual owner would be held liable in those instances.

This dog did not bite me but ran in front of me while I was driving. Who is responsible for my damages in the car accident?
A dog owner may be held liable for damages caused even by a non-biting dog, particularly in areas where restraint of a dog is legally mandated.

My child's face will be disfigured from a dog bite, but my friend says that my child provoked her dog to bite. What do I do?
Each state may have slightly different laws that pertain to this situation, but generally, responsibility rests with the owner of the animal..

Even when you know a dog, it is important to follow basic principles of safety:

How do I prove my landlord knew another tenant's cat or dog was dangerous?
Your attorney will know what information is important here. Sometimes, it is enough to show that the landlord had the responsibility to know, whether actual knowledge can be shown or not.

What am I liable for if my dog bites someone?
In most states, the owner of a dog is responsible for damages if that dog bites someone. In some states, if a dog is restrained and on the owner's property, there may be mitigating circumstances.

How much are my injuries worth?
Every case is different. There are several factors that go into establishing the value of the claim. As such, you should call our office as shortly after the attack as possible to make sure that the claim is properly handled from the beginning.

Should I report the attack?
Yes. As soon as possible, report the incident to the local animal control and/or police department or any other proper legal authority

What if the dog has no history of viciousness?
It does not matter whether the dog has former vicious incidents. If you were bitten, and you were the first person ever bitten by the dog, you can still proceed with a claim.

Can I bring a claim if I was petting the dog before it attacked?
Generally, yes. As long as you did not provoke the dog, then you would possibly be entitled to damages.

Does it matter if whose property I was on?
No. As long as you are on either public property or legally on private property, the dog owner could be held responsible.

Should I take photographs of my injuries?
Yes. Even if you initially do not wish to pursue a claim, at least you will have documentation in the event that you later elect to proceed with a claim.

Even when you know a dog, it is important to follow basic principles of safety:

Ask the owner's permission before you try to touch or pet the dog.
Do not suddenly approach a dog, particularly when you are in its territory
Do not touch or pet a dog that is resting or sleeping -- the dog should be aware of your approach. ("Let sleeping dogs lie.")
Be very careful around a mother dog that has puppies. This is particularly true if the mother is nursing.
If you suspect that a dog is abused or neglected, respect that the dog may be dangerous.
Avoid getting the dog very excited, or engaging in excessively rough play. The dog's instincts may overpower its self-control.
After getting the owner's permission, extend the back of your hand to the dog and allow the dog to sniff you before you try to touch or pet it. (Remember - the back of your hand, not your fingers.)
Exercise extra care in small or enclosed areas, where a dog may feel cornered.
Do not stare a strange or threatening dog in the eyes.
Never leave a baby or toddler alone with a dog. As mentioned above, some experts contend that no child under the age of ten should be left alone with a dog.
Sometimes you can get a sense for a dog's temperment even though you don't know it. If you suspect that a dog may be vicious, respond accordingly.
However, even when you think a dog is friendly, if you must approach a strange dog try to test how the dog will react. For example, if you are getting a ball or toy from a yard where a dog is present, get the dog's attention while you are safely on the other side of a fence to see how it responds.