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Lasting physical and emotional scars, especially when they happen unexpectedly in neighborhoods and public spaces throughout Washtenaw County. From Ann Arbor to Ypsilanti and the surrounding communities, victims often face urgent medical needs, rising bills, and uncertainty about their rights. A dog attack can disrupt every part of life—and no one should have to navigate the aftermath alone.
An experienced Michigan dog bite attorney plays a critical role in protecting victims, building a strong case, and ensuring that insurance companies treat clients fairly. At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, our team-based approach means you never get just one lawyer—you get the full support, experience, and dedication of our entire firm. With more than five decades of combined experience standing up for injured people across Michigan, we are committed to putting your rights first. Clients are treated like family, and your well-being is always our priority.
Michigan Dog Bite Law Overview (MCL 287.351)
Michigan has one of the strongest dog bite laws in the nation. Under MCL 287.351, dog owners are held strictly liable when their dog bites someone. This means a victim does not have to prove that the owner was negligent. If the dog bit a person and certain conditions are met, the owner is responsible—period.
What Counts as a “Bite” Under Michigan Law?
A “bite” is any contact where a dog’s teeth break the skin. Even a small puncture wound qualifies. Michigan law does not require serious tearing or mauling for a claim to be valid.
Prior Behavior Does Not Matter
One of the key protections for victims is that the dog’s past behavior—whether it has ever shown aggression or bitten before—does not affect liability. Even a first bite can lead to a claim.
Requirements for Proving a Michigan Dog Bite Claim
To pursue a dog bite case, a victim must show that:
- The bite occurred without provocation
The victim did not tease, harm, or provoke the dog in a way that would reasonably cause it to attack. - The victim was lawfully on public or private property
This includes public parks, sidewalks, businesses, and private homes where the victim had permission or a legal right to be. - The dog owner is responsible for the dog at the time of the incident
In some cases, landlords, dog sitters, walkers, or property owners can also be involved if they had knowledge of the dog’s presence or dangerous tendencies.
Who Can Be Held Responsible?
While dog owners are the primary responsible party, Michigan cases may also involve:
- Homeowners and renters insurance carriers
- Landlords, if they allowed a dangerous dog to remain on the property
- Caretakers, such as dog sitters or walkers
- Property owners, depending on control and knowledge of the dog’s presence
Understanding the statute correctly is essential to building a strong claim—and our attorneys work closely with clients to ensure every legal option is explored.
Liability Beyond the Dog Owner
Landlord Liability
A landlord may be liable if:
- They knew (or reasonably should have known) a tenant kept a dangerous dog
- They had the right to remove the dog or enforce pet restrictions
- The dog caused injury in a common area under the landlord’s control
These cases are complex and require detailed investigation of lease terms, communications, and prior complaints.
Liability for Dog Sitters, Walkers, or Caretakers
Individuals temporarily responsible for the dog can be held liable if their negligence contributed to the attack. Examples include:
- Failing to leash or restrain the dog
- Allowing the dog near vulnerable individuals
- Ignoring known aggressive tendencies
Premises Liability Overlaps
Dog bite cases sometimes intersect with premises liability, such as:
- Negligent supervision of children
- Unsafe property conditions that contributed to the attack
- Improper fencing, gating, or containment of the dog
These layers of responsibility can strengthen the overall claim.
Comparative Fault Considerations
Although Michigan’s dog bite statute is strict liability, insurance companies sometimes argue comparative fault—claiming the victim provoked the dog or assumed risk. Understanding how these arguments apply, and how to refute them, is essential to protecting the value of your claim. LSM’s attorneys are well-versed in combating these tactics.
Compensation Available in a Washtenaw County Dog Bite Claim
Medical Bills (Past and Future)
Costs may include ER treatment, wound care, imaging, physical therapy, and ongoing medical needs.
Plastic Surgery and Scar Revision Costs
Many victims, especially children and those bitten on visible areas, require cosmetic procedures. These costs are part of the claim even if treatment will occur years later.
Lost Wages & Loss of Future Earning Capacity
Time away from work or reduced ability to perform job duties can create significant financial strain. Future losses are carefully calculated to reflect long-term impacts.
Pain and Suffering
Dog attacks can cause substantial physical pain and long-lasting emotional hardship. Michigan law allows victims to recover compensation for these non-economic damages.
Emotional Distress and PTSD
Therapy, counseling, and psychological treatment are often necessary. Emotional trauma is compensable and taken seriously in evaluating the total value of a claim.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Fear of going outside, avoiding dogs, or losing the ability to participate in normal activities can be part of the damages.
Claims for Minors
Parents may recover out-of-pocket medical costs, while the child has a personal injury claim for:
- Scarring
- Trauma
- Pain and suffering
- Future medical needs
LSM ensures both parts of the child’s claim are properly documented and protected.
What To Do Immediately After a Dog Bite in Washtenaw County
Seek Medical Treatment & Document Injuries
Even small puncture wounds can lead to infection. Get medical attention immediately and keep records, photographs, and follow-up instructions.
Report to Washtenaw County Animal Control
A formal report creates documentation that is essential for your claim. It also helps verify vaccination status and prevents future attacks.
Obtain Witness Names and Photos of the Dog/Property
Photos of the dog, the location of the attack, and your injuries help preserve critical evidence. Witness statements can be invaluable when insurance companies dispute the facts.
Avoid Speaking With the Dog Owner’s Insurance Company
Politely decline to give statements or accept early settlement offers. Contact an attorney first to avoid compromising your claim.
Contact a Qualified Washtenaw County Dog Bite Lawyer Quickly
The sooner LSM can begin investigating, the stronger your case becomes. Early action helps preserve evidence, secure reports, and protect your rights from the start.
How Liss, Shapero & Mitnick Build a Strong Dog Bite Case
Thorough Investigation
We gather every piece of evidence available, including:
- Photos and videos
- Witness statements
- Surveillance footage
- Police and animal control reports
- Medical documentation
This comprehensive approach helps us build a clear and compelling picture of what happened and why the owner is responsible.
Collaboration With Medical Specialists and Plastic Surgeons
We consult with medical experts who can explain the extent of injuries, future needs, and long-term consequences—especially when scarring or nerve damage is involved.
Proving Long-Term Impacts — Emotional and Physical
Dog bites often lead to anxiety, PTSD, or fear of animals. We ensure these effects are documented and fully accounted for in your claim.
Calculating Full Damages to Avoid Low Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often undervalue dog bite injuries. We carefully assess:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Future treatment
- Emotional harm
Our goal is to recover the full value of what you’ve lost—not what insurers want to pay.
Prepared for Litigation From Day One
While many cases settle, we prepare every file as though it may go to trial. This approach signals to insurance companies that we won’t accept less than what is fair.
Speak With a Washtenaw County Dog Bite Lawyer Today
A dog bite can turn an ordinary day into a life-changing event. You do not have to navigate the medical bills, insurance pressures, or legal questions alone. At Liss, Shapero & Mitnick, we stand beside victims and families throughout Washtenaw County with the guidance, protection, and compassion they deserve.
Our attorneys take the time to understand your story, explain your rights, and build a strong path forward. With decades of experience and a team-based approach, we are committed to pursuing full justice—physically, emotionally, and financially. When you work with us, you gain more than representation; you gain advocates who treat you like family.
If you or someone you love has been injured by a dog, contact us today for a confidential, free consultation. We are here to help you reclaim control and move forward with confidence.
Liss, Shapero & Mitnick — Your Rights First
2695 Coolidge Highway
Berkley, MI 48072
Phone: 248-584-1300
Toll-Free: 1-855-LISS-LAW (1-855-547-7529)
Fax: 248-584-1323