Common Questions about Michigan Dog Bites

 

Click on each question below to read the answer.

 

• What is the Michigan Dog Bite Statute?
• Can I afford the Law Offices of Michael Morse P.C.?
• What are the most dangerous dogs?
• Why do dogs attack?
• What if I was on someone else’s property?
• What if the dog has never attacked anyone?
• What if I was playing with/touching the dog before it attacked me?
• Who should I report the attack to?
• Should I take photographs?
• Who will pay for my injuries? 
• What is the time limit for bringing my claim?
• Who should I talk to about my claim? 

 

 

What is the Michigan Dog Bite Statute?

 

A law that makes Michigan dog owners responsible for any physical injury their dog causes to the Michigan dog bite victim. MCL 287.351 states:

Sec. 1. (1) If a dog bites a person, without provocation while the person is on public property, or lawfully on private property, including the property of the owner of the dog, the owner of the dog shall be liable for any damages suffered by the person bitten, regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner's knowledge of such viciousness.

(2) A person is lawfully on the private property of the owner of the dog within the meaning of this act if the person is on the owner's property in the performance of any duty imposed upon him or her by the laws of this state or by the laws or postal regulations of the United States, or if the person is on the owner's property as an invitee or licensee of the person lawfully in possession of the property unless said person has gained lawful entry upon the premises for the purpose of an unlawful or criminal act.

 

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Can I afford the Law Offices of Michael Morse P.C.?

 

Yes. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael Morse P.C. will not charge any fee until we win your case. Then, the fee will be taken from your settlement amount.

 

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What are the most dangerous dogs?

 

There are many misconceptions about which dog breeds are the most dangerous. It’s important to keep mind that all dogs have the potential to bite. A dog's breed is only one of many factors that affect temperament and behavior. The best dogs are those that receive proper socialization, humane training, exercise, and attention; that are given adequate food, water, shelter, and veterinary care; that are sterilized; and that are safely confined.

 

If you are considering adopting or purchasing a dog, consult an animal professional for help selecting a pet suitable for your situation. Then, make sure each family member “tests out” the pet in a safe environment to ensure your choice is a good one.

 

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Why do dogs attack?

 

A dog will attack for any number of reasons.  For instance, dogs generally prefer to be dominant and territorial. Any actions that may threaten the dog's territory may cause the dog to attack. Another reason for an attack may be out of fear or self-defense. Many dogs (specifically the German Sheppard) are very protective of their owners and may misconstrue harmless human behavior as threatening to its owner. Finally, if a dog is sick or in pain, it’s likely to become very defensive and, in turn, aggressive.

 

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What if I was on someone else’s property?

 

You have a case. Under the Michigan Dog Bite Statute, as long as you were there legally, the dog owner can still be held liable. 

 

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What if the dog has never attacked anyone?

 

It does not matter. As long as you were legally on the property and did not provoke the dog, you have a case. 

 

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What if I was playing with/touching the dog before it attacked me?

 

It depends. If you did not provoke the animal, it is possible that you have a case. Contact the Law Offices of Michael Morse P.C. to discuss the matter with one of our dog bite attorneys. Our specialists can better assess your situation. 

 

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Who should I report the attack to?

 

Your local police and animal control agency.

 

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Should I take photographs?

 

Yes. Take photographs of the injuries and the scene of the incident if possible.

 

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Who will pay for my injuries? 

If the owner has homeowners or renters insurance, the insurance company will likely be required to pay.

 

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What is the time limit for bringing my claim? 

Generally, you have three years from the day you were attacked. 

 

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Who should I talk to about my claim? 

 

Contact the Law Offices of Michael Morse P.C. Our highly regarded attorneys will assist you with this decision and answer any questions you may have.

 

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