A dog bite happens in seconds, but the injuries can last for years: deep puncture wounds, torn tissue, nerve damage, infection, permanent scars and a fear of dogs that doesn’t go away. If you or your child was bitten in Michigan, the law is largely on your side — and the insurance that pays these claims is often already in place.
At Goukassian Law Firm we represent dog bite victims throughout Michigan, from Metro Detroit to communities across the state. We recently resolved a dog bite claim for a six-figure settlement in 30 days.
Michigan is a strict liability state for dog bites
Under Michigan’s dog bite statute (MCL 287.351), a dog’s owner is liable when the dog bites someone who:
- did not provoke the dog, and
- was on public property, or lawfully on private property — including the dog owner’s own home.
It does not matter whether the dog had ever bitten anyone before, or whether the owner knew the dog could be aggressive. That is very different from states that follow a “one free bite” rule. Read our full guide to Michigan dog bite law.
Where does the money come from? Most dog bite claims are paid by the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. A landlord’s, business’s or umbrella policy may also apply depending on where the bite happened. Finding every available policy early is one of the most important things we do.
What compensation can a dog bite victim recover?
- Medical costs: emergency care, stitches, surgery, rabies treatment, antibiotics, follow-up visits and future plastic or scar-revision surgery.
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity if the injury affects your work.
- Scarring and disfigurement, especially to the face, hands and arms. Learn about facial bites and scarring.
- Pain, suffering and emotional distress, including anxiety, nightmares and fear of dogs — common after an attack, especially in children.
- Counseling and therapy costs.
Common dog bite injuries we see
Dog bites combine crushing and tearing force. Common injuries include deep punctures, lacerations and avulsions (torn skin), fractures in the hand and face, nerve and tendon damage, infections such as cellulitis, and permanent scarring. Many bites to children land on the face and neck because of their height.
Why the first weeks matter
Insurance companies begin building their side of the case right away. They may ask for a recorded statement, question whether the dog was provoked, or offer a quick settlement before the full extent of your scarring is known. Before you speak with the owner’s insurer, read what to do after a dog bite — or call us first.
How we handle your dog bite claim
- We confirm who owns the dog and identify every insurance policy that may apply.
- We gather the animal control report, photos, witness statements and your medical records.
- We document how the injury affects your life, including future scar treatment.
- We present a detailed demand to the insurer and negotiate, and we are prepared to file suit when an insurer won’t be fair.
Dog bite lawyer by location
Michigan dog bite resource center
Every dog bite is different. Start with the guide that fits your situation:
- Bitten by a friend’s, neighbor’s or family member’s dog — how the claim is usually paid by insurance, not by the person you know.
- Who pays for a dog bite? — homeowner’s, renter’s, umbrella and landlord insurance.
- What is my claim worth? — the factors that increase or limit settlement value.
- Facial bites and scarring — plastic surgery, future procedures and why not to settle too early.
- Dog bites to children — special rules and concerns for young victims.
- Bitten while working — mail carriers, delivery drivers and home health aides.
- Knocked down or chased, but not bitten — you may still have a claim.
- What to do after a dog bite — eight steps to protect your health and your claim.
- Michigan dog bite law explained — the statute, defenses and deadlines.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have a case if the dog never bit anyone before?
Often, yes. Michigan’s dog bite statute makes the owner responsible for a bite regardless of the dog’s past behavior or whether the owner knew it could be dangerous — as long as you didn’t provoke the dog and were somewhere you had a right to be.
The dog belongs to a friend or relative. Will I be suing them personally?
In most cases the claim is paid by the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, not out of the owner’s pocket. Many of our clients were bitten by a dog they knew. We handle the claim with the insurance company so you don’t have to have that conversation yourself. Read more about claims involving a friend’s or relative’s dog.
How much is my dog bite case worth?
It depends on your medical bills, lost income, scarring, emotional impact and the insurance available. Facial injuries, bites to children and injuries needing surgery or plastic surgery usually carry more value. We can give you a realistic view after a free review.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Michigan?
Generally three years from the date of the bite. Different rules can apply to children, and evidence fades quickly, so it’s best to talk with a lawyer as soon as you can.
What if I was hurt by a dog but not bitten?
If a dog knocked you down or chased you into traffic, the bite statute may not apply, but you may still have a claim based on the owner’s negligence or the dog’s known dangerous behavior.
How much does it cost to hire you?
Nothing up front. We handle dog bite claims on a contingency fee, which means our fee comes out of the money we recover. If we don’t recover anything, you don’t owe us a fee.