Dog Bite

tom and Chris 057 Giroux Pappas lg SR_01536

Serious counsel for dog bite injuries in Michigan

Legal Advice You Can Trust

Andrew Laurila

Personal Injury Attorney

“Animal attacks are serious cases that can cause a lifetime of disfigurement and pain for some of the most vulnerable people.”

Types of Dog Bite Cases in Michigan

Dog bite injuries can happen suddenly. They take you by surprise and can leave lasting consequences including scars and future surgeries. Michigan has one of the toughest dog bite laws in the country, allowing victims to pursue a claim even if the dog has never shown aggression. Understanding your rights is important and knowing the steps you need to take immediately is critical. Our dog bite attorneys in Michigan have 30+ years of experience helping people with their claims.

01

Catastrophic Injury

Spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, amputations, and severe burns can completely change a person’s life. Our construction accident attorneys in Michigan hold negligent construction site owners accountable for the damages they cause.

02

Severe Dog Bite Injures

Serious dog bite injuries can include lacerations, permanent nerve damage, infections, and severe scarring.

03

Child Dog Bite Cases

Children are especially vulnerable to dog attacks, often sustaining injuries to the face, head and neck. We approach these cases with care, and an understanding of the long-term physical and mental scars a child may live with for life.

04

Owner Liability Claims

Michigan Dog Bite Law (MCL 287.351) holds dog owners strictly liable in many situations. We pursue claims against negligent owners to ensure accountability and fair compensation for victims. Often, owners are family members and we understand the sensitivity in these situations.

05

Disfigurement and Scarring Claims

Permanent scarring and disfigurement can have a long term and lasting effects on peoples lives. Our dog bite attorneys work to understand, document and present the long term impact the dog bite injuries have caused.

06

Infection and Complication Cases

Animal attacks and dog bites can lead to infections or complications that require long term treatment. We ensure that these issues are documented and accounted for properly.

07

Wrongful Death from Animal Attacks

In the tragic case where a dog attack results in death, we provide steady, principled counsel to families seeking accountability and justice.

Client Stories

Dog Bite Case, Told by Our Clients

“I was super nervous when we went to trial. I don’t really like talking in front of people at all and trying to think about getting on the stand and testifying was terrifying. But Bob just made me super comfortable. I don’t think if I went to anybody else, I would have felt as comfortable.”

Brittany, Dog Bite Victim

Do I Have a Case?

You were Bitten or Attacked by a Dog

If you were bitten or attacked by a dog, Michigan’s Dog Bite Law may allow you to pursue a claim against the owner, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.

The Injury Required Medical Care

Emergency care, stitches, surgery or ongoing treatment all indicated a serious injury that may support a legal case and result in compensation.

The Incident Occurred Within Michigan’s Statute of Limitations

In most cases, Michigan law gives you three years to file a civil dog bite injury claim. Some exceptions exist for children but don’t delay in seeking medical care or legal advice.

You Haven’t Accepted a Settlement From an Insurance Company

A dog bite claim in Michigan is often covered by homeowner’s insurance. These insurance companies tend to want to settle a claim quickly and for less than their true value. Our experienced dog bite attorneys can help you evaluate your case and discuss your options.

Your Injuries Are Documented

Photos of injuries, the scene, emergency room of doctor’s records, witness statements or contact information all help establish the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the attack.

What Happens Next

Clear Communication and Support

Step 01

Confidential Consultation

It begins with a complimentary consultation and direct conversation about what happened. We listen carefully, ask questions and gain valuable information about your dog bite case in Michigan.

Step 02

Case Evaluation & Investigation

We gather as much information about the dog bite attack as possible, medical records, witness accounts, dog owner information, photos or video. Any available information to help build a clear picture of what happened and build a strong dog bite claim.

Step 03

Strategic Preparation

Once we have the background information we develop a discipled legal strategy, which may include expert opinions, medical evaluations, and detailed documentation of your injuries and their future impact on your life.

Step 04

Negotiation or Trial

Because we are well prepared, we pursue a just outcome. This preparation is key leverage for gaining a proper settlement. If the insurance company resists we are always prepared to go to trial, if necessary.

Case Spotlight

A Three Year Old Child Mauled by Pitbull

A life changing dog bite case in Michigan.$450,000 Settlement.

A 3-year-old girl was mauled in the face by a pit bull. She will have life long scars to live with and surgeries in her future. The incident occurred at her grandmother’s house which made the mother of the girl hesitant to pursue a lawsuit. We have experience in these sensitive situations and discussed that the grandmother’s homeowners insurance would cover this settlement.

Shelby’s Daughter Had Birth Injuries

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who is responsible if a dog bites me or my child in Michigan?

Michigan law (See MCL § 287.351) holds dog owners strictly liable if their dog bites someone without provocation. This means that even if the dog has never bitten before, the owner is still responsible. There are 3 key points to this Michigan Statute:

Even if this is the first time the dog has bitten someone there is still liability. Knowing if the dog is vicious or not is irrelevant.
You must be lawfully on the property. This means that if you are on public property or were “invited” on the property say as a guest or delivery driver.
Provocation: If the owner can prove that you provoked the animal, this may bar you from recovering in a lawsuit.

The key factors are that the bite occurred in a public place or while the victim was lawfully on private property.

What should I do immediately after a dog bite to protect my legal rights?

if you or a loved one is bitten by a dog, take these steps:

Seek medical attention
Get the dog owners contact information
Take photos of the bite and where the incident happened
Report the bite to local animal control or the police (see our guide)
Speak to an attorney to understand your rights and potential for compensation

Can I still file a claim if the dog has never bitten anyone before?

Yes. Under Michigan’s dog bite liability law, an owner is responsible for a dog bite even if the dog has never shown aggression before. Unlike some states, Michigan does not require the owner to have prior knowledge of their dog’s potential to bite.

What if I was on the dog owner’s property when bitten?

If you were lawfully on the property—such as a guest, delivery worker, or utility worker—the dog owner can still be held responsible. However, if you were trespassing, your ability to file a claim may be limited.

What should I do if I can’t find the dog’s owner?

If you’ve been bitten by a dog and can’t locate the owner, take these steps to protect your health and legal rights.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Dog bites can lead to infections, and if the dog’s vaccination status is unknown, rabies could be a concern. A doctor can assess the wound and recommend treatment.
Report the Bite – Contact your local animal control or police department. They may be able to help identify the dog and its owner, and they will document the incident, which could be useful for a legal claim.
Try to Identify the Dog – If possible, take a photo or note distinguishing features. Ask neighbors if they recognize the dog or have seen it before.
Check for Surveillance Cameras – If the bite happened near homes or businesses, security footage may help track down the owner.
Get Witness Information – If anyone saw the attack, get their contact information. Witnesses can help describe the dog and confirm what happened.
Consult an Attorney – If the owner can’t be found, an attorney can help you explore your options, including seeking compensation through insurance coverage or other legal avenues. Even if the dog’s owner isn’t immediately known, you still have options.

Giroux Pappas champions justice for dog bite injury victims

If you’re considering your options, the first step is a conversation. We will review your situation, answer your questions, and help you understand whether you have a case.

Call Us: 248.289.0937 or