BuiltWithNOF
Dog Bites

Few things are more frightening than being attacked by a dog. Such an attack can leave the victim severely injured and traumatized. If the victim is a child, the injuries can be fatal. Michigan statutes hold the owner of a dog strictly liable for the dog’s behavior if an attack is unprovoked and the victim was not a trespasser. It makes no difference where the attack took place or if the attack is the first for the animal.

Dog Bite victims may suffer from painful injuries, infections, scarring and emotional distress. Dog-related injuries may require lengthy periods in the hospital, in addition to costly surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication. A qualified Dog Bite attorney may be able to recover significant monetary compensation on your behalf, which can be used to assist in the payment of these expenses.

According to the Humane Society of the United States:

  • Over 4.7 million people are bitten each year in the United States.
  • Approximately 18 people die annually from dog attacks.
  • Most dog bite victims are children.
  • The death toll over the past 20 years tops 300.
  • Every dog has the capability to bite.

? Why do dogs bite?

Dogs bite for a number of reasons. They attack out of fear, to protect their territory or to establish dominance. Some dog owners mistakenly teach their dogs that biting is an acceptable form of play behavior. The good news is that dog bites can be prevented. The Humane Society suggests a few ways to avoid getting bitten by a dog.

What dog owners can do to help prevent a dog bite:

  • Spay or neuter your dog. Dogs who have not been spayed or neutered are three times more likely to bite.
  • Train and socialize your dog so it’s comfortable around different types of people and situations.
  • Teach your dog appropriate behavior. Never play “attack” games with your dog. They need to understand the difference between play and real-life situations.
  • If you don’t know how your dog will react to a new situation, be cautious.
  • Be a responsible owner. License your dog as required by law and provide regular veterinary care, including rabies vaccinations.
  • If your dog exhibits behavior such as growling, seek professional advice from your veterinarian, animal behaviorist or skilled dog trainer.

? How can I avoid a dog bite?

  • Never approach a dog you don’t know or who is alone without its owner, especially if the dog is confined behind a fence, within a car or on a chain.
  • Don’t disturb a dog who is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.
  • Don’t pet a dog, even your own, without letting him see and sniff you first.
  • When approached by a dog you don’t know, don’t run or scream. Stand still with you hands at your sides, and do not make direct eye contact with or speak to the dog.
  • If knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears. Lie still and keep quiet until the dog goes away.
  • If a dog attacks, decrease injury by “feeding” him your jacket, purse, bicycle or anything else that can serve as a barrier between you and the dog.
  • Ten things to do if you have been injured by a dog:
    1. Seek medical attention immediately.
    2. Get the name and contact information of the dog owner.
    3. Get the name and contact information of any witnesses.
    4. Report your injury to the police.
    5. Request a copy of the report.
    6. Take photographs of the dog and the location where the injury happened.
    7. Take photographs of your injuries.
    8. Do not accept any settlement or admit fault with the owner’s insurance company.
    9. Save any clothing damaged by the dog.
    10. If you or someone you know has been injured from a dog bite, contact me today.

    Paul A. Buyers
    32721 Grand River Ave.
    Farmington, MI 48336
    Tel. 248-471-9100 Fax. 248-471-4292
    E-mail: paulbuyers@buyerslaw.com

    DISCLAIMER

    The above information is general information only. It is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice in any particular case. Each personal injury or property damage case is specific to the individual and must be considered and evaluated on an individual basis. In order to retain my services, a written retainer agreement must be signed. Unless and until a written agreement is signed, there is no attorney-client relationship and you should not take anything on this site as advice in any personal injury matter or any other case in which you may be involved. If you have any further questions about your legal rights and remedies, please feel free to contact me.