Dog attacks are becoming more common in Michigan. AccordingAmerican Veterinary Medical Association(AVMA), there are now approximately 84 million dogs in the United States. Every year, dogs bite about 4.5 million people, and children are the most common victims. Michigan is aThe top 10 countriesfor reported cases of dog bites. But who pays for dog bite injuries after an attack? ANDMichigan Dog Bite Lawyercan help you and your family receive full compensation for your injuries. But who pays for these injuries?
Who Pays for Dog Bites in Michigan?
In short, the owner of the dog is responsible for injuries that occur to humans. Under Michigan law, as long as the dog was notcausedand the victim was not on someone else's property, the dog owner is responsible for all marks, injuries, medical bills and lost wages from the dog attack. Michigan hasstrict liability law, meaning that the victim does not even have to show negligence.
In fact, home owner insurance covers the dog owner and pays for expenses related to someone being injured by the dog. Almost all homeowner's insurance policies cover dog attacks. However, if you own a home and have a dog, you should make sure the insurance company is aware of this.
What Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover in a Dog Bite Attack?
Homeowner's insurance covers certain things that result from a dog bite attack. First, it covers the pain and suffering caused by the dog to the injured party. It also covers medical expenses such as hospital and doctor bills.
If you are sued for assault, your home insurance will provide you with an attorney to defend the case. This means you don't pay the lawyers yourself. Instead, the insurance carrier agrees to “defend and indemnify” the owner of the attack dog. In many cases, homeowner's insurance will also pay for property damage the dog causes to another person. This can include injuring another dog and paying vet bills.
An experienced Michigan dog bite attorney can help you file an insurance claim and get these things paid for after an attack.
What is not covered by home insurance?
However, home insurance doesn't pay for everything. For example, it does not cover damage your dog causes to your property or family members. So if your dog bites another person in your home, home insurance does not pay medical bills.
Additionally, home insurance does not pay for property damage caused by the family dog. This exclusion exists in all insurance policies. So, if your dog chews up your bed or couch, your homeowner's insurance may not cover the damage.
Homeowner's insurance also doesn't cover your dog's normal injuries or illnesses. It does not cover surgeries, vet bills, MRIs or other dog medical needs. However,pet insurancecovers many of these situations and has become a more popular choice for dog owners.
Does Michigan have a dog bite rule?
Not. Some states have a one bite rule, first bite rule, or "one free bite rule" for dog bite cases. This means that if the dog has not previously bitten another person or animal, then it is assumed that the dog's owner was not aware of the dog's dangerous behavior. Since the owner was missing it, the victim cannot sue the dog's owner for injuries. In other words, the dog gets a free bite, after which the owner becomes aware of the dog's dangerous tendencies and is responsible for further attacks.
Michigan has no such rule. Even if the dog is cute and has never attacked anyone before, in Michigan the owner of the dog is liable for the first bite. This is because under the Michigan Dog Bite Act, the dog owner is liable for any damages resulting from a dog bite. Onlydefenseare provocations and unauthorized intrusion.
Is an owner liable for a dog bite in Michigan?
Generally, owners are not liable for dog bite attacks that occur on their property. Instead, the responsibility rests with the dog owner. That's why it's important to have renter's insurance if you're a renter with a dog. The owner is generally not responsible for what you do.
However, like most things in the law, there are some exceptions to when owners can be held liable for dog bite injuries. First, the landlord must be aware that a dangerous dog resides on the rental property. If the owner has no idea of the dog's dangerous tendencies, then he cannot be held responsible for the attack.
Second, even if the landlord knows that a dangerous dog resides on the property, the landlord has time for the tenant to remove the animal. This grace period is not set, but usually the judge gives the owner at least one month to remove the dog.
Third, the assault must occur on the owner's property. If the attack happened in a nearby park or on someone else's property, it is very difficult to extend liability to the owner.
There may be other situations where a landlord can be held liable for injuries caused by a tenant's dog to another person. This is why it is important to consult with an excellent Michigan attorney and law firm if you have suffered serious injuries from a dog bite attack.
Can you sue for a minor dog bite?
That. In Michigan, even minor dog bites are compensable provided the person suffered an injury. In such cases, treatment is not always necessary.
Often, your dog bite injury attorney can help you settle the claim directly with the insurance adjuster. But it is important to engage the attackerdog bite injury lawyerrepresent your interests. Otherwise, the homeowners insurance company will try to save you money and pay less.
Ways to avoid dog attacks and dog bite prevention
Dogs bring incredible joy and love to a family. But it's important to make sure everyone stays safe because they can get violent and dangerous. Here are some recommended tips to avoid dog bites:
- Make sure your dog is socialized. Dogs that stay inside all day and don't interact with people or other animals can become very defensive. They also become protective of their owners when visitors come
- Make sure your dog has some training. All dogs must be trained to follow simple commands. The owner must be able to verbally control their pet before something bad happens.
- Take the time to consistently train your dog. Just because your dog, even a puppy, is trained doesn't mean he can go back to his old habits. Continue to work with your dog to sit, stay, listen to commands and give positive feedback.
- If your dog seems nervous or excited, move him to another location. If you are at home and your dog seems unusually nervous or anxious around visitors, put the dog in another room or pen. In any case, the dog will feel more relaxed.
- Be careful around other people's dogs. We don't know the history of the individual dog we meet. It's best to be careful. Do not start petting the dog or bring your face close to the dog without first talking to and getting permission from the owner.
- Sometimes dogs just want to be left alone. If the dog ignores your efforts or seems worried, it may be best to leave it alone.
Call a Michigan dog bite attorney for help
The Law Firm of Lee Steinberg, PC has Michigan attorneys and legal teams throughout Michigan. We come to you and listen to your story and help gather the facts. You pay nothing until we resolve your Michigan dog bite or dog attack case.
Call us at1-800-LEE-FREE (1-800-533-3733), and we can start answering all your questionsMichigan Dog Bite and Dog Attack Law. Let us help you today.
FAQs
Who Pays for a Dog Bite Injury in Michigan? ›
In most dog bite cases, the settlement is paid by the homeowner insurance company for the dog owner or keeper. If it is a business, the insurance liability policy for the business pays the claim. Almost all insurance policies include provisions for paying settlements to victims of canine attacks.
What is the average settlement for a dog bite in Michigan? ›Average Dog Bite Settlement Amounts in Michigan
Settlements can range from $1,500.00 for a minor bite to $1,000,000.00 for the most serious injury or even death. Factors that determine how much your dog bite settlement will be include: Size and location of any scars, marks, or disfigurements.
If you or someone you know was attacked by a dog in Michigan they are entitled to compensation for dog bite injuries. Under Michigan law, the dog owner is reliable to pay for a victim's pain and suffering damages, unless that person was a trespasser on private property or provoked the dog into the attack.
Can I sue for a dog bite in Michigan? ›You can sue for a dog bite in Michigan if you were bitten by a dog and suffered an injury. This includes attacks on your property, public property, and on the property of the dog owner if you were lawfully on the property.
Does Michigan have a one bite rule for dogs? ›Under the Michigan Dog Bite Statute (MCL § 287.351), the owner of the dog can be liable for the first bite as long as the victim (1) was lawfully on the property and (2) the victim did not provoke the dog.
How much money can I get from a dog bite? ›On average, dog bite settlements are worth somewhere in the neighborhood of $30,000 to $50,000. Expect to get a lower offer if the injuries you sustained from the attack are relatively minor. The dog owner may offer you that kind of settlement to get out of dealing with the legal process.
Do most dog bite cases settle? ›Most dog bite cases are settled without a lawsuit being filed, which usually means quicker compensation. If the victim must file a legal claim, it may still be settled before reaching trial; however, compensation typically takes longer in cases involving lawsuits for multiple reasons.
Is Michigan a one bite state? ›Is Michigan a One-bite State? This one is simple. Michigan is not a state that is covered by what is sometimes referred to as the "one bite" rule.
What is the protocol for dog bites in Michigan? ›Animal Bites
The Public Health Code requires that any animal bite be reported to the public health agency where the bitten person resides, as well as where the bite occurred, within 24 hours of the bite incident. [R325.
Level 3: One-four shallow punctures from a single bite and potentially small lacerations from pulling the biting dog or victim body part away. Level 4: One-four deep punctures from a single bite and lacerations or bruising from the dog holding on or shaking.
Do vets have to report dog bites in Michigan? ›
The State of Michigan requires all animal on person bites to be reported. All other animal on animal attacks should also be report to Animal Control. Animal Control has seen a increase in animal attacks and animal bites that never got reported.
How much is a dog bite ticket in Michigan? ›The Penalties for the Animal's Owner
If your dangerous animal attacks and seriously injures another person, you may be guilty of a felony punishable by any combination of 4 years of imprisonment, a fine of $2,000.00, or 500 hours of community service.
As with many other personal injury cases, there is a deadline for bringing a claim against the liable party. In Michigan, you have three years from the date of the injury to file a civil claim in court against the liable party – the dog's owner.
What am I liable for if my dog bites someone? ›Dog owner liability
Dog-bite statute - The dog owner is automatically liable for any injury or property damage the dog causes, even without provocation. “One-bite” rule - In some states, the owner is not held liable for the first bite the dog inflicts.
Under the dog law, it is unlawful for any person to own a dog six months or older unless the dog is licensed. MCL Sec. 287.262. It is also unlawful for a person to own a dog six months or older that does not wear a collar and tag at all times, except when engaged in hunting activities accompanied by his or her owner.
What happens if a dog bites you on accident? ›If the bite is bleeding heavily, or on a sensitive area like your hands, face or neck, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately. In either case, a doctor's visit will document your injury, and they can prescribe antibiotics.
How to negotiate a dog bite settlement? ›- Seek Immediate Medical Attention.
- Report the Dog Bite to Local Authorities.
- Find Out About the Dog Owner.
- Check Your Local Dog Bite Laws.
- Collect Evidence to Support Your Claim.
- Know What Your Claim is Worth.
- Watch What You Say to the Adjuster.
You can file a claim for compensation with the insurance company of the negligent party, seeking monetary damages for physical injuries, medical bills, rehabilitation expenses, future medical costs, lost wages, decrease in future earning potential, disfigurement, and pain and suffering. Dog bite laws vary by state.
How long does it take to get money from a dog bite? ›To answer generally how long it takes for negotiations to conclude and a claim to settle, it can take up to three months on average. Remember, this is just a general estimate, and you shouldn't expect your case to follow this same timeframe. It can take longer and even shorter than three months to receive compensation.
Do all dogs get put down for biting? ›Most dogs who bite will not need to be euthanized, but each situation is different and the decision is made on a case-by-case basis. If you've noticed signs of aggression, NOW is the time to work with a qualified animal behaviorist to give you the best chance of avoiding a tragic incident.
How do you treat a Level 2 dog bite? ›
For level 2 dog bite treatment, you should see a doctor to reduce your risk of bacterial infection. Your primary healthcare provider can assess and treat minor to moderate dog bites. If the dog bite is severe, emergency medical personnel are best equipped to manage the trauma of a dog bite.
Is Michigan a first party state? ›While it may be a convenient shorthand to think of Michigan as a one-party consent state, that is not literally true. Michigan does not permit just anyone to record conversations so long as they have the permission of any one person involved in the conversation.
What is Michigan's self defense law? ›In the state of Michigan, a person can use dead force and have no duty at all to retreat when there is an honestly held and reasonable belief that deadly force must be used to prevent imminent death, a sexual assault to you or another person or to protect yourself or another person from great bodily harm.
What is the bite quarantine law in Michigan? ›According to State Law, you are being required to quarantine your animal for a period of 10 days. This law is intended to protect the injured person(s) from any risk of rabies, a deadly neurological disease.
Should a dog bite be reported? ›Report the bite.
Your police and local authority's dog warden should be informed of any dog bites to take steps to prevent this happening in future. They may also be able to give you advice to prevent it happening again in future.
Dogs are required to be quarantined for a minimum of 10 days after biting a person in California. Bites must be reported to local health officials, triggering the quarantine process. This mandatory quarantine process is to make sure the dog does not have rabies.
What to do if domestic dog bites? ›- Wash the wound. ...
- Slow the bleeding with a clean cloth.
- Apply over-the counter antibiotic cream if you have it.
- Wrap the wound in a sterile bandage.
- Keep the wound bandaged and see your doctor.
- Change the bandage several times a day once your doctor has examined the wound.
Level 1 Bite - Aggressive behavior with no skin contact by teeth. This is normally a dog that is trying to simply scare a dog or human so that he or she will just go away. Level 2 Bite - Skin-contact by teeth but no skin-puncture. This doggie is a little more serious about his aggression.
How many bites before a dog is put down? ›A dog that has bitten at least 2 people can be euthanized after a court hearing. These 2 bites must have happened in separate incidents. If a victim was bitten more than once in a single attack, it only counts as a single bite.
What is considered a serious dog bite? ›A dog bite is serious when there is a potential for infection, excessive blood loss, or damage to the nerves, ligaments, and muscles. A dog bite wound is especially concerning if the animal has not been vaccinated.
What is the strict liability law in Michigan? ›
Strict Liability Crimes in Michigan can land a person in prison for at least 25 years even though the person had no basis to believe they were doing anything illegal. An example of this is Criminal Sexual Conduct in the First Degree.
Should I take my dog to the vet if he bites me? ›Call Your Vet
Unless the bite is truly just superficial (on the surface of the skin), your dog should be seen by your veterinarian after being bitten. Your dog's veterinary team will be able to make sure the wound is totally clean, and your vet can prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.
Michigan law requires that dogs and ferrets must be vaccinated for rabies and it is recommended that all cats and any domestic livestock in contact with the public be vaccinated if a licensed vaccine exists.
Is landlord liable for dog bite Michigan? ›Was the person injured by the dog on the property or next to the property—courts will often take the location of the incident into account. Where a person was attacked while lawfully on the property or next to it, the landlord would most likely be liable.
How long can you sue for a dog bite in Florida? ›If you are a victim of a dog bite in Florida, you have four years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim.
What is a Level 5 dog bite? ›LEVEL 5—MULTIPLE BITES WITH DEEP WOUNDS
Dogs responsible for Level 5 bites are generally considered dangerous dogs. Rehabilitation may be possible with the help of a veterinary specialist or trainer, but it would require a dedicated professional and a great deal of work, with no guarantee of success.
Level Two:
At a level two bite, a dog's teeth will make contact with a person's skin and leave some redness or light bruising but does not break the skin.
Level 2 Dog Bite:
The dog's teeth touch the skin but do not break. You might see redness and light bruising. The level 2 dog bite is concerning, even though it has not yet broken the skin. For level 2 dog bite treatment, you should see a doctor to reduce your risk of bacterial infection.