10 Questions to Ask a Dog Bite Lawyer

A quarantined pit bull recently attacked an Oakland County animal shelter employee, causing serious injuries. According to the news report, the dog was sequestered because it had bitten several family members. But what happens if you are bitten by a dog with no history of aggression? Who is responsible? An experienced dog bite lawyer will explain your rights and make sure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are ten questions to ask your attorney if you or your child were injured by a dog.

What if the dog that bites me has never been vicious before?

In Michigan, dog owners are responsible if their dog bites and injuries another person, regardless of the dog’s history. An owner is not protected by a dog’s previous “good behavior.” Therefore, a victim may file a claim against the owner, even if the dog has never bitten before.

What kind of settlement can I expect if I hire a dog bite lawyer?

Many factors determine the amount of compensation a victim receives. These include the severity of the injuries and whether there is permanent scarring or other lasting damage. Because a dog attack is a traumatic experience, the psychological damage is also taken into consideration.

Is there a statute of limitations for dog bite cases?

In Michigan, personal injury claims must be filed within three years. However, if the victim is under 18, they may file a claim until their 19^th birthday. However, if you or your child is bitten, you should contact a dog bite lawyer as soon as possible for the best result.

Who are the most common victims of dog bites?

Children are bitten more often than individuals in other age groups. In addition, children are more likely to sustain serious injuries. The next most common victims are senior citizens, followed by postal carriers.

Should my children take precautions around familiar dogs? 

Yes. Statistics show that most children are bitten by a dog they know, including family pets and those belonging to neighbors.

What should I do if a dog bites me or my child?

In the event of a severe attack, you should call an ambulance or go to the nearest emergency room. Then wash the wound(s) with soap and warm water. If possible, take photos of the injuries and the area where the attack occurred.

What are the advantages of hiring a dog bite lawyer?

Statistics show that plaintiffs who hire personal injury attorneys achieve better financial outcomes than those who represent themselves. Victims must provide extensive medical records and other documentation according to stringent filing deadlines. A knowledgeable lawyer will obtain and submit the necessary information in keeping with the legal requirements and timelines.

What if the owner says I provoked the dog?

According to Michigan dog bite law, the attack must occur “without provocation.” Often, the owner and/or the insurance company try to prove the victim provoked the dog. A qualified dog bite lawyer knows how to counteract these claims and present a winning case. 

How can I protect my children (and myself) from a dog attack?

Always ask the owner’s permission before you pet a dog. If the owner agrees, let the dog look at you and sniff you before you touch it.

If an unfamiliar dog approaches, stay still and avoid sudden movements.

Supervise children when they are playing with a dog, even a familiar one.

Don’t bother a dog that is growling, barking, eating, sleeping, or feeding its puppies.

What should dog owners do to prevent their dogs from biting? 

Owners should always use a leash when taking a dog out in public, even in their own neighborhood. Gradually introduce a new dog to people and other pets. Owners should provide dogs with plenty of exercise, especially if they are in the house for long periods of time. If necessary, enroll in a dog training class. If a dog is not feeling well or seems irritable, keep it away from people.

Michigan dog bite laws are complicated, but finding the right lawyer is simple.

Call 1-800-CALL-SAM today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Sources:

https://patch.com/michigan/westbloomfield/s/gy3so/dog-shot-killed-after-biting-oakland-county-animal-control?utm_source=alert-breakingnews&utm_medium=email&utm_term=around-town&utm_campaign=alert

https://www.cdc.gov/features/dog-bite-prevention/

https://www.avma.org/News/PressRoom/Pages/Dog-Bite-Fact-Sheet.aspx

http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(tygzlexs30ffsgur4kvihmlc))/mileg.aspx?page=GetObject&objectname=mcl-287-351