Reach Us 24/7

Call 248-886-8650 Now

ct-logo-new2

Macomb Dog Bite Lawyer

Have you or a loved one been bitten by someone else’s dog in Macomb? Contact the Michigan Law Office of Christopher Trainor & Associates for a free consultation today. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Table of Contents

Living in Macomb County, we're surrounded by friendly faces, both human and canine. But what happens when a wagging tail turns into a vicious attack? Dog bites can leave you with not only physical injuries but also emotional trauma and lost wages.

Here's the truth: under Michigan law, dog owners have a duty to keep their pets under control. If you were bitten by a dog while lawfully on public property, attending to your duties (like mail delivery), or even entering a private residence with permission, you might have a case. Don't let the fear of a lengthy legal battle prevent you from seeking what you deserve.

Many Macomb residents have faced similar situations, whether the bite was the result of an unlawful or criminal act or simply an unfortunate accident. The good news is that you don't have to navigate this alone.

Here at Christopher Trainor & Associates, a Michigan personal injury law firm, we specialize in dog bite cases. We understand the physical and emotional pain you're experiencing, and we're here to fight for your rights. We work on a "no win, no fee" basis, so you can focus on healing while we handle the legalities.

Schedule a free consultation with one of our Macomb dog bite lawyers today. Don't let a dog bite derail your life, both physically and financially. Let Christopher Trainor & Associates help you recover the damages you deserve.

Common Dog Bite Injuries

Dog bites can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scratches to severe, life-threatening injuries. In Macomb, residents are no strangers to the devastating consequences of dog attacks, which can happen anywhere from public parks to private residences. Some of the most common dog bite injuries include:

  • Puncture wounds and lacerations: A dog's sharp teeth can easily puncture the skin and cause deep cuts, often requiring stitches or even plastic surgery to repair.
  • Broken bones: Powerful breeds like pit bulls can cause fractures, especially in children or older adults with more fragile bones.
  • Infection: Dog bites can introduce harmful bacteria into the wound, leading to serious infections if not treated promptly with antibiotics.
  • Scarring and disfigurement: Severe dog bites can leave victims with permanent scarring, particularly on the face, arms, and legs.
  • Emotional trauma: The psychological impact of an animal attack can be just as devastating as the physical injuries, causing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

If you or a loved one has suffered from any of these injuries due to a dog bite, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Document your injuries (both physical and psychological injuries), gather witness statements, and contact an experienced Macomb dog bite lawyer to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Michigan

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, it's essential to take the right steps to ensure your safety, health, and legal rights. Whether the attack occurred in a familiar place like your neighborhood or a public space like Lake St. Clair Metropark, follow these steps:

  • Seek medical attention: Even if the bite seems minor, it's crucial to have a medical professional assess the wound to prevent infection and ensure proper treatment.
  • Report the incident: Contact Macomb County Animal Control to report the dog attack and provide them with the owner's information, if known.
  • Gather evidence: Take photos of your injuries, the dog (if safely possible), and the scene of the attack. Collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the incident.
  • Contact a Macomb dog bite lawyer: Consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in dog bite cases and understands Michigan's laws. They can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
  • Document your damages: Keep track of all medical bills, lost income, and other expenses related to the dog attack incident. This information will be crucial when seeking compensation from the dog owner's insurance company.

Remember, Michigan law holds pet owners strictly liable for any damages caused by their pets, even if the attack occurred on the owner's property and the dog had no prior history of viciousness. By taking these steps and working with a skilled Macomb dog bite lawyer, you can protect your rights and seek the justice you deserve.

Understanding Michigan’s Dog Bite Law

Michigan has a strict liability statute regarding dog bites, which means that dog owners are held responsible for any injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the animal's past behavior or the owner's knowledge of its viciousness. This law applies in most situations, including when the attack occurs on public property like a park or sidewalk or when the victim is lawfully on the owner's private property, such as a delivery person or postal worker.

However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. If the injured person provoked the dog or was trespassing on the owner's property at the time of the attack, the owner may not be held liable. Additionally, Michigan's dog bite law only applies to actual bites, not other injuries caused by dogs, such as being knocked down or scratched.

It's important to note that even if the dog owner is not found liable under the dog bite statute, they may still be held responsible under other legal theories, such as negligence. This is where having an experienced Macomb dog bite lawyer can make a significant difference in your case. They can help you understand your rights, gather evidence to support your claim and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog bite in Macomb, don't hesitate to seek legal guidance from a knowledgeable attorney who can protect your interests and help you navigate the complex legal system.

Proving Liability in a Dog Bite Case

Proving liability in a dog bite case is essential for victims seeking compensation for their injuries and damages. In Macomb, Michigan, the law holds dog owners strictly liable for any injuries caused by their pets, but there are some exceptions and nuances to this rule that can impact your case. Here's what you need to know:

  • Strict liability: Under Michigan's dog bite statute, dog owners are responsible for any damages caused by their pets, even if the animal had no prior history of viciousness or the owner had no knowledge of such behavior. This means that if you were bitten by a dog while lawfully on public property or while legally on the owner's private property, such as when working as a delivery person or postal worker, the owner can be held liable for your injuries.
  • Exceptions to strict liability: There are a few situations where the dog owner may not be held strictly liable. If the injured person provoked the dog or was trespassing on the owner's property at the time of the attack, the owner might not be responsible for the damages. Additionally, Michigan's dog bite law only applies to actual bites, not other injuries caused by dogs, such as being knocked down or scratched.
  • Negligence: Even if the strict liability statute doesn't apply, dog owners may still be held liable under the legal theory of negligence. To prove negligence, you and your Macomb dog bite lawyer must show that the owner failed to exercise reasonable care in controlling or restraining their pet, and this failure led to your injuries. For example, if the dog was known to be aggressive and the owner allowed it to roam freely in a public space like a park, they may be found negligent.
  • Evidence: To build a strong case, your Macomb dog bite lawyer will gather evidence to support your claim. This may include medical records documenting your injuries, witness statements, police reports, and any prior complaints or incidents involving the dog. Photographs of your injuries, the scene of the attack, and the dog itself can also be valuable evidence.
  • Damages: Once liability is established, your attorney will work to prove the extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and any long-term costs associated with your injuries, such as future medical treatment or psychological trauma.

Navigating a dog bite case can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies and defense attorneys who may try to minimize your claim or shift blame onto you. That's why it's crucial to work with an experienced Macomb dog bite attorney who understands Michigan law and can fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. By gathering strong evidence, proving liability, and demonstrating the full extent of your damages, your attorney can help you hold the dog owner accountable and secure the resources you need to heal and move forward after a traumatic dog attack.

Common Defenses Used by Defendants in a Macomb Dog Bite Lawsuit

If you've been bitten by a dog in Michigan, understanding common defenses used by dog owners in these cases can be crucial. Here at Christopher Trainor & Associates, we've helped numerous bite injury victims recover compensation for their injuries.

Here's a breakdown of some common defenses dog owners might use in Macomb dog bite cases:

Provocation by the Injured Party

One common defense is that the injured party provoked the dog. This could include teasing, hitting, or cornering the dog. Michigan law considers whether the person bitten was acting lawfully on the owner's property or in a public place. For instance, mail carriers on their postal route or delivery personnel on someone else's property with the homeowner's permission are generally considered lawfully present.

Trespassing on Owner's Property

If the dog bite happened while you were trespassing on private property, the dog owner might argue they had no duty to protect you from a dog attack. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as if the owner knew the dog had a history of biting or if the dog owner failed to ensure a person lawfully on their property (such as someone who gained lawful entry through implied invitation) was protected from a known dangerous dog. Additionally, if the trespassed-upon area was poorly marked as private property, it could strengthen your case.

Lack of Knowledge

Dog owners might claim they weren't aware of their dog's vicious tendencies. However, Michigan law holds dog owners liable for their dog's bites, regardless of prior knowledge. This is especially true if the dog is a breed commonly known for aggression, such as pit bulls.

Dog Was Provoked by Another Animal

In some cases, the dog owner might argue their dog was provoked by another animal, leading to the bite. However, this defense might not hold much weight if the bite resulted from the dog's aggressive response, not a necessary action to protect itself.

Bite Happened in Public Place (Leash Law Defense)

Macomb, like many other Michigan jurisdictions, has leash laws requiring dogs to be restrained in public spaces. If the attack happened in a public place, and the dog was unleashed, the owner might be liable regardless of provocation or prior knowledge.

Understanding these defenses is important, but it's not recommended to navigate a dog bite claim alone. The aftermath of a dog attack can be stressful, with medical bills piling up and lost income impacting your finances. Here at Christopher Trainor & Associates, our Macomb dog bite lawyers offer free consultations to discuss your case. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you won't pay a dime unless we win your case.

Contact us today and let our experienced legal team fight for the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost income. Don't let a dog bite injury become a financial burden – we're here to help Michigan residents recover the damages they deserve.

Damages Recoverable in a Macomb Dog Bite Claim

Here's a breakdown of the damages recoverable in a Macomb dog bite claim:

  • Medical Expenses: This covers all costs associated with treating your injuries. It includes ambulance rides, emergency room visits, doctor appointments, medications, surgeries like plastic surgery to address permanent scarring, and any future medical care you might need.
  • Lost Income: Dog bite injuries can be severe, forcing you to miss work and lose income. You can recover compensation for lost income during your recovery period.
  • Pain and Suffering Damages: Dog bites can be incredibly painful, both physically and emotionally. This category compensates you for the physical pain you endured, emotional distress, psychological trauma, and any resulting loss of enjoyment of life.

Other Damages: Depending on the circumstances, you might also be able to recover damages for:

  • Property damage to clothing or personal belongings ripped during the attack.
  • Loss of companionship if the dog bite injury significantly impacts your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
  • Scarring and disfigurement, especially if it affects your self-esteem or ability to work.

Average Dog Bite Settlement Amounts

It's difficult to predict the exact value of a dog bite settlement. The amount depends on the severity of your injuries, the long-term impact on your life, and the dog owner's homeowner's insurance coverage. However, consulting with a Macomb dog bite lawyer can help you understand the potential value of your claim.

Why You Need a Dog Bite Lawyer

Navigating the legal landscape and recovering the compensation you deserve can be overwhelming. This is where a Macomb dog bite lawyer from Christopher Trainor & Associates can be a valuable asset. Here's how:

Understanding Michigan Dog Bite Laws

Michigan dog bite law adheres to a "one-bite rule" with some exceptions. This means a dog owner is generally liable for damages if their dog bites someone who is lawfully present on public or private property unless the person bitten provoked the dog.

However, there are exceptions, such as attacks by dogs with a history of violence, or if the person bitten was trespassing on private property. A Macomb dog bite lawyer can assess your specific situation and determine if the dog owner can be held responsible under Michigan law.

Building a Strong Dog Bite Claim

Dog bite cases often involve complex issues like owner negligence, the extent of injuries, and potential psychological trauma. A Macomb dog bite lawyer can gather evidence, such as witness statements, animal control reports, and medical records, to build a strong case for your compensation.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Dog bite injuries often result in significant bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Homeowner's insurance companies representing the dog owner may try to downplay your injuries or offer a low settlement. A Macomb personal injury lawyer with experience negotiating with insurance companies can fight for the maximum compensation you deserve, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and even permanent scarring from plastic surgery.

Protecting Your Rights

Michigan law allows dog bite victims to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. However, dog bite cases can involve complex legal issues, and insurance companies may have aggressive defense lawyers. A lawyer familiar with Michigan dog bite laws and experienced in handling dog bite claims can protect your rights and ensure you are treated fairly throughout the legal process.

Free Consultation

At Christopher Trainor & Associates, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial burdens you face after a dog attack. That's why we offer a free consultation for those who have been injured in a dog attack. During this consultation, we'll discuss your case, answer your questions, and advise you of your legal options.

Don't wait to seek legal help after a dog attack. Contact Christopher Trainor & Associates today for a free consultation. Our Macomb dog bite lawyers are committed to helping injured victims like you recover the damages you deserve.

Statute of Limitations on Dog Bite Cases in Michigan

In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite claim is typically three years from the date of the incident. This means that if you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Michigan, you have three years to take legal action against the dog's owner.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if the victim was a minor at the time of the attack, the three-year clock may not start until they turn 18. It's important to consult with a knowledgeable Macomb dog bite lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that you don't miss the deadline for filing your claim. They can help you understand your rights, gather evidence to support your case, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve under Michigan law.

FAQs on Dog Bite Cases in Michigan

How does Michigan's dog bite statute differ from the common law "one bite rule," and what implications does this have for dog owners in Macomb County?

Michigan's dog bite statute imposes strict liability on pet owners, meaning they are responsible for any injuries caused by their pets, regardless of prior knowledge of viciousness. In contrast, the common law "one bite rule" holds owners liable only if they knew or should have known of their dog's dangerous propensities. This strict liability standard makes it easier for dog bite victims in Macomb County to seek compensation, as they don't need to prove the owner's prior knowledge of the dog's viciousness.

Under what circumstances might the doctrine of comparative negligence be applied in a Macomb dog bite incident, and how could this affect the injured party's ability to recover damages?

Comparative negligence may be applied here in a dog bite incident if the injured party is found to have provoked the dog or contributed to the incident in some way. If the court determines that the victim's actions played a role in the attack, the damages awarded may be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to them. For example, if a person is found 20% at fault for provoking a dog, their compensation would be reduced by 20%.

How might the location of the dog attack (e.g., public property like a park or private property like the dog owner's home) impact the application of Michigan's dog bite laws and the injured person's ability to seek compensation?

Michigan's dog bite statute applies to incidents on both public and private properties as long as the injured person was lawfully present at the location. However, if the dog bite occurred while the victim was trespassing on private property, the owner might not be held liable under the statute.

What is the potential impact of the dog owner's homeowner's insurance policy on the settlement process and the amount of compensation available to the injured party in a dog bite incident?

Homeowner's insurance policies often cover dog bite incidents, providing a source of compensation for the injured party. However, insurance companies may attempt to minimize the payout or deny the claim altogether. The specific terms of the dog owner's policy, such as coverage limits and exclusions for certain breeds like pit bulls, can significantly impact the settlement process and the ultimate compensation available to the victim. An experienced Macomb dog bite lawyer can negotiate with insurance adjusters to seek the maximum settlement possible under the policy.

Contact a Macomb Dog Bite Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, contact Christopher Trainor & Associates by calling 248-886-8650 for a free consultation. Our experienced Macomb dog bite lawyers will review your case and advise you of your legal options. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you won't owe us any fee unless we win your case.

Get Answers From Experienced Lawyers

We are available for free consultations in person, via Zoom or through FaceTime.

Name(Required)
Required Fields *
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
map-white-lake

White Lake
Main 

9750 Highland Road
White Lake, MI 48386
248-886-8650White Lake
map-flint

Flint 

336 W First Street
Flint, MI 48502
810-234-5678Flint
map-kalamazoo

Kalamazoo 

251 North Rose St., Ste 200-6013
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
269-447-2200Kalamazoo
map-ann-arbor

Ann Arbor 

2723 South State St. Ste 250-15096
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
734-882-2646Ann Arbor
map-grand-rapids

Grand Rapids 

250 Monroe NW, Ste 400-706039
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616-591-3700Grand Rapids 
map-southfield

Southfield 

2000 Town Center, Ste 1900-1237
Southfield, MI 48075
248-886-8650Southfield 
map-lansing

Lansing 

120 N Washington, Ste 300-5101
Lansing, MI 48933
517-546-2279Lansing
map-bay-city

Bay City 

401 Center Ave, Ste 25
Bay City, MI 48708

989-262-0787Bay City
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram