Michigan has one of the strongest dog bite laws in the country — owners are held strictly liable, meaning you don't have to prove the dog had a history of aggression. If you've been bitten, here's what matters most in those first critical hours and days:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Dog bites carry serious infection risks, and a documented medical record is the foundation of your claim.
- Identify the dog and its owner. Get names, addresses, and confirm whether the dog is up to date on vaccinations.
- Document everything. Photographs of your wounds, the location, and any torn clothing — taken as soon as possible — tell a story that words alone can't.
- Report the bite to your local animal control authority. This creates an official record.
- Contact an attorney before speaking with the owner's homeowner's insurance. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. You deserve someone in your corner first.