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What You Need To Know
Since ancient times, dogs have been known as man's best friend. There are many people who consider their dogs family members and loyal companions. Dogs are generally well behaved and fun, but there are situations when they can cause serious harm or even death.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a significant proportion of the millions of dog bites reported each year result in infection, causing serious illness and death. If you have been attacked and bitten by a dog, a Michigan dog bite lawyer from LegalGenius can help you determine the best course of action to take.
Dog Owners and Their Liability in Michigan
Every dog owner in Michigan is required to treat and care for their dog in a humane and responsible manner, and to prevent their dog from injuring others. In the event that a dog bites another person or damages someone's property, the dog owner is liable for any injuries or damages.
MCL section 287.351 holds dog owners liable for injuries caused by their dogs, regardless of whether they are aware of any vicious tendencies. Thus, even if the dog has never attacked anyone or has never displayed any threatening behavior, the owner is still held responsible. This holds true even if the attack occurs on the owner’s property, provided that the victim was lawfully on the property. This includes guests or visitors of the owner as well as postal workers, police, and other parties carrying out their legal responsibilities.
An estimated one in three homeowners' insurance claims involve dog bites. According to the Humane Society of the United States, insurance companies pay out millions in dog bite liability every year.
Most Common Injuries in a Dog Attack
Dog bites can cause a variety of injuries depending on the severity of the attack. The bite of a dog can leave a lasting scar or damage the surrounding tissue. Among the many injuries that can be caused by dog bites are:
It’s critical that you seek medical treatment for yourself or your loved one as soon as possible after a dog attack. The combined risk from infection and blood loss can rapidly create devastating results, especially for small children.
Compensation After a Dog Attack
Dog bite injuries are often severe, requiring expensive medical treatments, long-term care, and loss of income. In order to understand your legal rights and the compensation you are entitled to, you should seek the advice of a Michigan dog bite lawyer.
A dog owner who is found responsible for your dog bite injuries will be required to pay for your medical treatment, lost wages, emotional distress, and more. It is also possible for victims to recover punitive damages, which is money awarded to punish the owner who knew beforehand that the dog was vicious but failed to take reasonable steps to protect the public.
Request Your Free Injury Consultation
Don't let the insurance companies take advantage of you. Request a free consultation with a LegalGenius lawyer to discuss your case and understand your rights. Our lawyers can review your case to help you determine your options and estimate the true value of your case. You can speak with one of our dog bite attorneys by calling (800) 209-4000, or filling out a contact form.
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Comprehensive Help: We handle all of the legal work for you, so that all you have to do is focus on recovering from your injuries.