Children are bitten by dogs far more often than adults, and their injuries tend to be more serious. Because of their height, bites to young children frequently land on the face, head and neck. For parents, it’s frightening — and the questions about medical bills, scarring and what comes next can feel overwhelming.
Why child dog bite cases are different
- Facial injuries and scarring. Scars on a growing child can change over time, and some treatment, such as scar revision, may not be possible until the child is older.
- Emotional trauma. Nightmares, anxiety and a lasting fear of dogs are common. Counseling costs and the emotional impact are part of the claim.
- Provocation arguments. Insurers sometimes argue a child provoked the dog by hugging, chasing or grabbing it. What counts as provocation from a young child is a fact-specific question, and we push back hard on unfair blame.
Planning for future medical needs
One of the biggest mistakes in a child’s dog bite claim is settling before the full extent of future care is known (see our guide to facial bites and scarring). We work with the child’s doctors to understand likely future treatment — such as plastic surgery or laser scar treatment — so the settlement accounts for it.
How a child’s settlement works in Michigan
When a minor’s injury claim settles, Michigan courts often must approve the settlement to make sure it protects the child. Funds may be placed in a protected account or structured settlement until the child reaches adulthood. We guide families through that process from start to finish.
The filing deadline for children
Most injury claims must be filed within three years, but Michigan law can give a person injured as a minor additional time after turning 18. Even so, waiting is rarely wise: evidence, witnesses and the owner’s insurance information are easiest to secure right after the bite.
What parents should do now
Get your child medical care, report the bite to animal control, take photos of the injuries as they heal, and write down what happened while it’s fresh. Then talk to us for free before speaking with the dog owner’s insurance company.