Saline Dog Bite Lawyer

Many Saline residents have pet dogs and walk them around residential areas and public parks. Often, these pets are friendly and do not harm anyone. However, if an aggressive dog attacked you, you may be able to take legal action against the pet owner.

Dog attacks can lead to severe injuries, infection, and psychological trauma. Because of the severity of this type of accident, it is crucial that you meet with a Saline dog bite lawyer.

The skilled personal injury attorneys at Charles Boyk Law have experience in these types of cases and have a thorough understanding of the state’s dog bite laws. Having a talented legal professional at your side can increase your chances of successfully recovering compensation.

Strict Liability in Saline Dog Bite Cases

Some states use the “one bite rule” in dog attack cases that relieve owners of liability if their dogs have no previous history of violent behavior. However, Michigan law considers dog owners strictly liable for any injuries their pets inflict on others. According to Michigan Compiled Laws, Chapter 287, § 287.351, you can hold the pet owner liable for injuries their dog inflicted on you were on public property or lawfully on private property.

Strict liability assumes you were lawfully on the grounds and did not provoke the dog in any way, such as teasing it. Additionally, the law only permits you to file claims about dog bites. A pet owner will not be held strictly liable if their dog jumps on you and knocks you down while on a leash or behaves aggressively toward you while behind a fence.

However, you may still be able to file a legal claim if the owner did not restrain the dog or take other measures to prevent it from approaching you. Our knowledgeable attorneys can explain all the nuances of liability in your dog bite claim.

How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit for a Canine Attack?

According to MCL § 600.5805, you have three years from the date of the dog bite to file a legal claim. If you lost a family member due to a severe dog bite, you must also file your case within this deadline.

If you wait too long to file, the court will dismiss your case. This is why it is so important to speak with a dog attack attorney as soon as possible.

Potential Roadblocks to Collecting Compensation

MCL § 287.351 outlines two common defenses dog owners in injury claims. If you provoked the dog by teasing it, throwing objects at it, or trying to harm it, the owner is not liable for any injuries you suffer as a result. Additionally, the dog owner will not face liability if you were illegally on their property at the time of the attack. Property owners do not owe a duty of care to trespassers. An experienced lawyer can help you prepare for these common defenses in your dog bite case.

Reach Out to a Dog Bite Attorney in Saline Today

Dog attacks can be terrifying and result in long-term injuries and disfigurement. If you or a loved one was injured in this type of accident, reach out to a dog bite lawyer in Saline today. We will help you navigate all the legal aspects of your case. Call us today to set up a free consultation.