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Dog Bites

Dog Bite Attorney in Michigan

Your Rights After a Dog Bite Incident in Michigan

Are you in need of a dog bite lawyer in Michigan? The knowledgeable professionals at Bashore Green Law Group can help. We know dog bites can be particularly devastating, not only because of the pain, physical damage, and scarring that often results but also because of the psychological trauma inflicted upon victims. In many cases, those injured are unable to defend themselves, which results in significant injuries.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States each year. Approximately 20% of these victims (about 885,000 people) require medical attention. In a recent year, more than 31,000 people underwent reconstructive surgery from dog bites.

Tragically, almost half of all dog bite victims are children. A dog bite can be a traumatic event that results in serious injury. Under the Michigan Dog Bite Statute (MCL §287.351), the owner of the dog can be liable, even for the first bite. 

Injured by a Dog Bite?
If you've been bitten by a dog in Michigan, don't wait! Contact our experienced dog bite attorneys at Bashore Green Law Group today for a free consultation. We’ll fight for the compensation you deserve. Call now at (248) 487-1887!

Common Injuries Caused by Dog Bites and Personal Injury Impacts

Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, both physical and emotional, leading to significant personal injury. The severity of the injuries often depends on the size and breed of the dog, as well as the location and force of the bite. Here are some common injuries:

Physical Injuries: 

  • Lacerations: Dog bites often result in deep cuts and tears in the skin, which can be painful and require stitches. These injuries can cause lasting pain and may require extensive medical care, contributing to personal injury.
  • Infections: Bacteria from a dog’s mouth can cause serious infections. Even if the wound seems minor, infections can develop if not treated properly, leading to more complications and the need for additional medical treatment.
  • Broken Bones: In some cases, a dog bite may involve a bite strong enough to fracture bones, particularly if the dog is large or aggressive. This kind of injury may require surgery and long-term rehabilitation.

Emotional Trauma:

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Victims, especially children, may develop PTSD after a traumatic dog bite. This emotional trauma can result in nightmares, anxiety, or an overwhelming fear of dogs, leading to personal injury claims related to psychological damage.
  • Anxiety and Fear: Even if physical wounds heal, many victims experience lasting emotional scars, which can affect their day-to-day life. These emotional injuries can be just as debilitating as physical ones.

Long-Term Scarring and Disfigurement:
Dog bites can leave permanent scarring, especially when the bite is on the face or other visible areas. This may lead to emotional distress, a loss of self-esteem, and the need for reconstructive surgery, all of which are significant factors in personal injury claims.

Costs of Medical Treatment and Surgeries:
Dog bite victims may need extensive medical care, including emergency treatment, surgery, and follow-up visits to prevent infection or address scarring. These treatments can be costly and require significant time off work, contributing to the overall financial burden of a personal injury claim.

Who is Responsible for a Dog Bite in Michigan?

In Michigan, there are specific laws that determine liability in dog bite cases:

Michigan's Strict Liability Laws:

  • Under Michigan law (MCL §287.351), a dog owner can be held strictly liable for a dog bite, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. This means that the owner is responsible for the damages caused by the bite.

Negligence of the Dog Owner:

  • If a dog owner is negligent (e.g., failing to properly restrain or train their dog), they can be held liable for any injuries caused by the dog. This includes situations where the dog escapes the owner’s yard or attacks someone without provocation.

Third-Party Responsibility:

  • In some cases, other parties such as a dog walker, kennel, or pet sitter can be held responsible for a dog bite if they failed to properly control or care for the animal.
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