Dog Bite Injury

Yes. Michigan law is clear and strong when it comes to dog bites.

Under Michigan Compiled Laws § 287.351, a dog owner is strictly liable if:

• Their dog bites someone without provocation
• The bite happened while the victim was lawfully on public or private property

That means you don’t have to prove the dog had a history of violence. Just that it bit you—and you weren’t trespassing or teasing it.

Dog bites can cause serious injuries, from infection to nerve damage and disfigurement. You may be entitled to damages for medical costs, scars, emotional trauma, and time off work.

‍

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, seek medical attention immediately. Even seemingly minor bites can lead to serious infections. After receiving medical care, consider consulting a dog bite attorney at Marko Law to understand your rights and options for pursuing a claim.

Marko Law stands out due to our dedication to client satisfaction, personalized service, and extensive experience in handling various personal injury cases, including dog bites. We offer a free initial consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our Detroit-based team is ready to provide you with expert legal guidance and support.

In a dog bite case, you may seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost wages, future medical costs, and property damage resulting from the incident. Discuss your case with an attorney at Marko Law to find out more.

Dog bites can vary in severity depending on several factors, including the size and breed of the dog, the location and depth of the bite, and the victim's age and overall health. Generally, dog bites are categorized into several levels based on the extent of injury they cause: Level 1: Minor Dog Bite -Superficial wounds that barely break the skin.

-Mild bruising or abrasions.

-No puncture wounds or lacerations.

-Minimal pain and swelling.

-Typically does not require medical treatment beyond basic first aid. Level 2: Moderate Dog Bite

-Shallow puncture wounds or lacerations that may penetrate the skin.

-Moderate bruising, swelling, and pain.

-Minor tissue damage or muscle injury.

-May require medical attention, including cleaning, disinfection, and possibly stitches or wound closure. Level 3: Severe Dog Bite

-Deep puncture wounds or lacerations that penetrate the skin and underlying tissue.

-Significant bruising, swelling, and pain.

-Potential nerve damage, tendon or muscle injury, or bone fractures.

-Increased risk of infection or complications.

-Requires immediate medical treatment, including thorough wound cleaning, suturing, and possibly surgical repair. Level 4: Critical Dog Bite

-Extensive tissue damage, including deep lacerations, avulsions, or crushing injuries.

-Severe bleeding, nerve damage, or loss of function in the affected area.

-High risk of infection, necrosis (tissue death), or systemic complications.

-Life-threatening injuries requiring emergency medical care, surgery, and intensive treatment. Level 5: Fatal Dog Bite

-Extremely rare, but in some cases, dog attacks can result in death.

-Typically involves severe head or neck injuries, massive bleeding, or other catastrophic trauma.

-Immediate medical intervention may be unable to save the victim's life. It's important to note that the severity of a dog bite can also be influenced by factors such as the dog's behavior, history of aggression, and whether the victim is a child or vulnerable adult. Regardless of the level of the dog bite, prompt medical attention is essential to prevent complications, reduce the risk of infection, and ensure proper wound healing. Additionally, victims of dog bites should report the incident to local authorities and seek legal advice, especially if the dog's owner is negligent or liable for the attack.

Yes, there is a time limit for filing a dog bite claim. In Michigan, you generally have three years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it's advisable to consult a dog bite attorney promptly to ensure all deadlines are met.

Marko Law specializes in personal injury cases, including dog bites. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the legal process, investigate the incident, collect evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. We're committed to helping you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Yes, you can pursue a dog bite claim even if the dog has no history of aggression or prior bites. Michigan law holds dog owners responsible for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of the animal's previous behavior.

While dog owners can be held liable for bites that occur on their property, they may have certain defenses available. These defenses can include claims of provocation or the victim's unlawful presence on the property. Consult a dog bite attorney, such as the experienced team at Mark Law, to understand the specific circumstances of your case.