Every year in Michigan, thousands of residents suffer serious injuries from dog bites, with the CDC reporting that approximately 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs annually, and Michigan sees its fair share of these incidents. Whether you’re a dog owner concerned about liability or someone who’s been injured in a dog attack, understanding Michigan’s dog bite laws could protect you from financial devastation and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
As experienced personal injury attorneys serving Oakland County and surrounding areas, we’ve handled hundreds of dog bite cases and seen firsthand how Michigan’s strict liability laws can dramatically impact both victims and dog owners. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Michigan dog bite laws in 2025.
Michigan’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law Explained
Michigan operates under one of the most victim-friendly dog bite laws in the United States. Under Michigan Compiled Law 287.351, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any aggressive tendencies.
What “Strict Liability” Means for You
Unlike some states that follow a “one-bite rule” (where owners get a free pass for the first incident), Michigan law makes dog owners responsible from the very first bite. This means:
- No previous bite history required – Even if the dog has never shown aggression before
- Owner knowledge irrelevant – The owner doesn’t need to know the dog was dangerous
- Automatic responsibility – If your dog bites someone, you’re liable (with limited exceptions)
Key Takeaway: Michigan’s strict liability law strongly protects bite victims and holds dog owners accountable for their pets’ actions, making it easier for victims to recover compensation.
When Dog Owners Are NOT Liable Under Michigan Law
While Michigan’s dog bite law favors victims, there are two important exceptions where dog owners may escape liability:
Exception #1: Provocation by the Victim
If the victim provoked the dog, the owner may not be held responsible. However, Michigan courts interpret “provocation” narrowly. Examples include:
- Intentional provocation: Hitting, kicking, or deliberately antagonizing the dog
- Unintentional provocation: Accidentally stepping on the dog’s tail or startling a sleeping dog
- Age considerations: Children under 7 are presumed incapable of provocation
Exception #2: Trespassing on Private Property
Dog owners are not liable if the victim was trespassing on their property at the time of the bite. However, this exception has important limitations:
- Lawful visitors are protected: Mail carriers, delivery drivers, guests, and anyone with implied permission
- Public property incidents: No trespassing defense for bites on sidewalks, parks, or streets
- Burden of proof: The dog owner must prove the victim was trespassing
Key Takeaway: These exceptions are limited, and insurance companies often try to misapply them. If you’ve been bitten, don’t assume you’re not entitled to compensation just because the dog owner claims provocation or trespassing.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Michigan
If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Michigan, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and strengthen any potential legal claim:
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention (Within Hours)
- Call 911 if injuries are severe
- Visit emergency room for deep wounds, facial injuries, or bites from large dogs
- See your doctor even for seemingly minor bites to prevent infection
- Get rabies evaluation – Michigan law requires reporting to assess rabies risk
Step 2: Document Everything (Same Day)
- Photograph injuries before cleaning or bandaging
- Document the scene where the bite occurred
- Get witness information – names, phone numbers, and what they saw
- Write down details while memory is fresh
Step 3: Report the Incident (Within 24-48 Hours)
- Contact animal control in your county
- File police report if injuries are serious
- Report to health department as required by Michigan law
- Notify your insurance company
Step 4: Gather Dog Owner Information
- Owner’s name and address
- Dog’s vaccination records
- Homeowner’s/renter’s insurance information
- Dog license information if available
Step 5: Contact an Experienced Attorney
Don’t wait to contact our Oakland County dog bite attorneys for a free consultation. Insurance companies often contact victims quickly with low settlement offers before they understand the full extent of their injuries.
Key Takeaway: The first 48 hours after a dog bite are critical for both your health and any potential legal claim. Don’t delay seeking medical attention or legal advice.
Common Dog Bite Injuries and Available Compensation
Dog bite injuries can range from minor puncture wounds to life-threatening trauma. In our experience representing Oakland County dog bite victims, we’ve seen the full spectrum of injuries:
Physical Injuries
- Puncture wounds and lacerations
- Nerve damage leading to numbness or loss of function
- Bone fractures from powerful jaws
- Muscle and tendon damage
- Facial injuries requiring reconstruction
- Infections including serious conditions like sepsis
- Scarring and disfigurement
Psychological Trauma
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Fear of dogs (cynophobia)
- Anxiety and depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Impact on children’s development
Compensation Available Under Michigan Law
Michigan dog bite victims may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Disability and permanent impairment
- Property damage (torn clothing, damaged personal items)
Key Takeaway: Dog bite injuries often have lasting physical and emotional impacts. Comprehensive compensation should address both immediate and long-term consequences of the attack.
How Michigan Law Differs from Other States
Understanding Michigan’s unique approach to dog bite law helps explain why our state is considered more favorable to victims:
Michigan vs. “One-Bite Rule” States
Many states follow the “one-bite rule,” where:
- First bite is “free” – Owner not liable for first incident
- Victim must prove owner knew dog was dangerous
- Harder to recover compensation for first-time incidents
Michigan’s strict liability law eliminates these hurdles.
Michigan vs. “Pure Negligence” States
Some states require proving the owner was negligent:
- Victim must show owner failed to exercise reasonable care
- Complex legal standards about proper dog control
- Harder to win without evidence of specific negligence
Michigan’s law focuses on the bite itself, not the owner’s conduct.
Michigan’s Comprehensive Protection
Michigan law provides:
- Immediate liability from the first bite
- Clear legal standards that are easier to apply
- Strong victim protection compared to most states
- Predictable outcomes in most cases
Key Takeaway: Michigan residents benefit from some of the strongest dog bite protections in the nation, making it easier to recover fair compensation for injuries.
Oakland County Specific Ordinances and Procedures
As Madison Heights personal injury lawyers familiar with local procedures, we understand that Oakland County has specific requirements that can affect your case:
Oakland County Animal Control
- Reporting requirements within 24 hours for serious bites
- Quarantine procedures for biting dogs
- Investigation process and documentation
- Rabies testing protocols
Local Court Procedures
Oakland County courts handle dog bite cases with specific procedures:
- 48th District Court (covers Madison Heights and surrounding areas)
- 6th Circuit Court for larger claims
- Local settlement practices
- Typical timeline expectations
Municipal Ordinances
Different Oakland County cities may have:
- Leash law requirements
- Breed-specific restrictions
- Dog licensing requirements
- Penalty structures for violations
Key Takeaway: Local knowledge of Oakland County procedures and requirements can significantly impact the success of your dog bite claim.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Dog Bite Law
Q: Can I sue if a dog bites me on the owner’s property?
A: Yes, as long as you were lawfully on the property. This includes guests, mail carriers, delivery drivers, service workers, and anyone with permission to be there.
Q: What if the dog has never bitten anyone before?
A: Michigan’s strict liability law means the dog’s history doesn’t matter. Even well-behaved dogs with no history of aggression can result in owner liability.
Q: How long do I have to file a dog bite lawsuit in Michigan?
A: Michigan’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including dog bites, is generally three years from the date of the incident.
Q: Will the dog be put down after biting someone?
A: Not necessarily. This depends on the severity of the attack, the dog’s history, and local animal control policies. Most first-time bites result in quarantine and observation, not euthanasia.
Q: Can children recover compensation for dog bites?
A: Yes, and Michigan law provides special protections for children. Kids under 7 are presumed incapable of provoking a dog, making it easier to establish liability.
Q: What if the dog owner doesn’t have insurance?
A: You may still recover compensation through the owner’s personal assets, your own insurance policies, or other sources. An experienced attorney can help explore all options.
Q: Should I accept the insurance company’s first offer?
A: Rarely. Initial offers are often far below fair value and don’t account for long-term medical needs or full damages. Always consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement.
Q: Can I be compensated for emotional trauma from a dog bite?
A: Yes, Michigan law allows recovery for emotional distress, PTSD, and other psychological impacts of dog attacks.
Key Takeaway: Michigan dog bite law is complex, and insurance companies often try to minimize claims. Having experienced legal representation significantly improves your chances of fair compensation.
Why Choose Local Oakland County Dog Bite Attorneys
When dealing with a dog bite injury, having attorneys who understand both Michigan law and local Oakland County procedures makes a significant difference:
Our Local Advantage
- Over 30 years serving Oakland County residents
- Deep relationships with local courts, medical providers, and experts
- Understanding of local insurance practices and settlement patterns
- Immediate availability for Oakland County emergencies
Our Proven Track Record
At Jaffe Defense Team, we’ve successfully handled hundreds of dog bite cases, securing substantial compensation for our clients while providing compassionate, personalized service throughout the process.
Our Comprehensive Approach
- Immediate case evaluation and medical referrals
- Thorough investigation of the incident and dog’s history
- Expert medical testimony to establish injury extent
- Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies
- Trial preparation when fair settlement isn’t offered
Key Takeaway: Local experience combined with proven expertise gives Oakland County dog bite victims the best chance of maximum recovery.
Take Action: Protect Your Rights Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite incident anywhere in Oakland County, don’t wait to protect your rights. Insurance companies begin building their defense immediately, and crucial evidence can disappear quickly.
Free Consultation Available
We offer a completely free, no-obligation consultation to evaluate your case and explain your options. During this consultation, we’ll:
- Review the incident details and applicable law
- Assess the strength of your potential claim
- Explain the legal process and timeline
- Discuss compensation you may be entitled to receive
- Answer all your questions about Michigan dog bite law
Contact Oakland County’s Experienced Dog Bite Lawyers
Call (248) 522-9545 or contact us online for your free consultation. We’re available 24/7 for emergencies and serve clients throughout Oakland County, including:
- Madison Heights
- Ferndale
- Troy, Birmingham, Royal Oak, and surrounding communities
Located in the Heart of Oakland County
Jaffe Defense Team411 W 13 Mile Rd
Madison Heights, MI 48071
Don’t let a dog bite derail your life. Michigan law is on your side, and we’re here to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Related Resources
For more information about dog bite injuries and personal injury law in Michigan:
