Most people think of dogs as gentle, friendly animals. However, dog bites can leave victims with painful injuries, medical bills, and emotional trauma. Not only do dog bites cause immediate harm, but they can also have long-term consequences. Infections, scarring, and permanent disability are common. If you sustained injuries such as these, a Southfield dog bite lawyer could help you navigate the legal process and pursue compensation for your injuries.
Whether your injuries were caused by a dog in your neighborhood, a friend’s pet, or one in a public place, you have legal options. Consult our skilled personal injury attorneys to get the compensation you need to recover. At Thurswell Law, our attorneys will help you understand your rights and determine whether you have a case.
State Dog Bite Laws
Michigan is a strict liability state. Under Michigan Compiled Laws § 287.351, a dog owner is responsible for injuries caused by their dog if the bite occurs on public property or if the victim is lawfully on private property. This is true even if the dog had no history of aggression. In other words, the owner can be liable for any harm caused by their dog under these circumstances.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. For example, the injury must occur at a location where the victim had a right to be. If a dog bites a trespasser on private property, the owner might not be liable.
Understanding how the law applies in each case is critical. Depending on the location, a person may or may not receive compensation. Our Southfield attorney could better explain your legal options after a dog bite injury.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can result in a spectrum of injuries. They range from minor cuts and bruises to serious, life-threatening wounds. Some injuries are more common than others, such as:
- Lacerations: These deep cuts can require stitches or surgery
- Infections: Bacteria can cause severe infections such as cellulitis or sepsis
- Broken bones: Breaks can happen when the dog lunges or bites specific areas of the body
- Scarring: Visible scarring and internal damage can affect appearance and mobility
- Emotional trauma: The psychological impact can lead to anxiety, PTSD, and phobias
A dog-attack victim should contact our Southfield lawyers if they have suffered any of these injuries. The right attorney could help pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Act Quickly After a Dog Bite
It is essential to seek immediate medical care after a dog bite. Even injuries that appear minor at first may be severe. A healthcare professional can evaluate the severity of the bite, clean the wound to prevent infection, and provide proper treatment.
A person should also report the bite to the relevant local authority. Not only does this help in legal or insurance claims, but it also ensures the dog is properly quarantined and evaluated for rabies and other diseases.
It is also crucial to gather evidence to support any claims. Photographs of the injury, medical records, and witness statements can prove essential in recovering damages. Our attorneys could assist with collecting and organizing evidence to strengthen the claim for compensation after a Southfield dog bite incident.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Claims
Do not wait when deciding to file a claim. The longer a person waits to file, the harder it is to gather evidence and establish the facts of the case. Our lawyers could help make sure a dog bite claim is filed within the three-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases.
Call Our Attorneys for Help With Your Southfield Dog Attack Injury Claim
If you or a loved one is bitten by a dog, do not hesitate to reach out to an attorney. Our Southfield dog bite lawyer could help you navigate the legal process while protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve. Experience gets results—call Thurswell Law at (248) 460-9865 and let our attorneys fight for your justice.
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