Michigan follows a strict liability rule for dog bite cases. A dog owner can be held responsible when their dog bites someone — even if the dog never bit anyone before, and even if the owner claims they had no idea the dog was dangerous.
No "one free bite" in Michigan
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You do not have to prove the owner was careless. Under Michigan's dog bite statute, if you were bitten without provoking the dog while lawfully present, the owner is liable — regardless of the dog's history.
Some states follow a “one free bite” rule, where a victim must prove the dog had attacked before or that the owner knew it was dangerous. Michigan does not. Under MCL 287.351, liability attaches to the first bite just as fully as any later one.
If you were bitten without provoking the dog while you were on public property or lawfully on private property — including the owner’s own property — you may have a claim for damages under Michigan law.
Treatment, wound care, infection management, and follow-up visits.
Procedures needed when a bite causes significant tissue damage.
Permanent visible injuries, particularly serious in bites to the face.
Income lost while recovering or caring for an injured child.
The physical pain and lasting emotional impact of an attack.
Anxiety, nightmares, and fear of dogs — common and well documented in children.
Tell us what happened. We'll explain whether Michigan's strict liability statute applies to your situation.
Liability follows the dog's owner, and homeowners' or renters' insurance often provides the coverage.
We gather medical records, photographs, animal control reports, and witness statements.
Insurers commonly argue provocation or trespassing. We're prepared to try the case if they won't pay fairly.
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Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome in any future matter.
“Raquel obtained justice for my son after a terrifying dog bite. Relentless and bilingual support when we needed it most. Justicia real para nuestra familia.”
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No. Michigan’s statute makes the owner liable regardless of the dog’s prior history or whether the owner knew the dog was dangerous.
Provocation generally requires intentional conduct that would reasonably cause a dog to bite. Normal movement, petting, or playing is rarely enough — but insurers raise this defense often, which is why documentation matters.
The statute protects people lawfully present, including invited guests, and people performing duties required by law such as mail carriers and delivery drivers.
The strict liability statute covers bites specifically. Non-bite injuries may still be pursued under negligence or through local leash ordinance violations, which requires a different approach.
Michigan generally allows three years from the date of the bite, with exceptions for minors. Speak with an attorney early.
Nothing upfront. No attorney fee unless we recover for you.
