Summer Dog Attacks in Michigan: The Person Holding the Leash May Be Liable Too
Summer is one of the busiest seasons for dog bites and dog attacks in Michigan. Families spend more time outdoors, children are out of school, and dogs are frequently brought to parks, festivals, trails, and neighborhood gatherings. Unfortunately, increased interaction often means an increased risk of injury.
Most people know that a dog owner may be responsible when a dog bites someone. What many people do not realize is that, under certain circumstances, the person controlling the dog at the time of the attack may also be held liable.
Dog Bites Are Not Limited to Aggressive Dogs
After a dog attack, one of the first questions people ask is whether the dog has bitten someone before.
While a dog’s history can be important in some cases, the absence of a prior bite does not automatically prevent an injured person from bringing a claim. Michigan law recognizes situations where liability may arise from a person’s failure to properly control or restrain a dog, regardless of whether the animal previously showed aggressive tendencies.
In other words, the focus is not always on what the dog did in the past. Sometimes the focus is on whether the person responsible for controlling the dog acted reasonably under the circumstances.
Who Can Be Responsible Besides the Owner?
Depending on the facts, liability may extend beyond the dog’s owner.
Examples may include:
- A friend watching the dog while the owner is away.
- A family member caring for the dog.
- A dog walker.
- A pet sitter.
- A neighbor temporarily handling the dog.
- Anyone who has accepted responsibility for controlling the animal.
Every case is different, but Michigan courts have recognized that individuals who exercise control over a dog may have legal duties independent of ownership.
Leash Laws Matter
Many Michigan cities and townships have local ordinances requiring dogs to be restrained or kept on a leash when off the owner’s property.
These rules exist for a reason. Even friendly dogs can become excited, territorial, frightened, or unpredictable in crowded environments.
When a person violates a local leash ordinance and someone is injured, that violation may become important evidence in a personal injury case. Depending on the circumstances, a jury may be allowed to consider whether the failure to properly restrain the dog contributed to the attack.
What Should You Do After a Dog Bite?
If you or a loved one is injured by a dog:
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Report the incident to local authorities or animal control.
- Photograph injuries as soon as possible and continue documenting the healing process.
- Obtain the names and contact information of witnesses.
- Identify who owned the dog and who was controlling the dog at the time of the attack.
The facts gathered during the first few days after an attack can be critical to a future claim.
Injured by a Dog in Michigan?
Dog bite and dog attack cases are often more complicated than they appear. Determining who may be legally responsible and demonstrating the totality of damages requires experience and diligence.
Attorney Jonathon Homa has sucessfully litigated claims against dog custodians. If you or a family member has been injured in a dog attack, speaking with attorney Jonathon Homa will help to protect your legal rights. Contact JKH Law for a free consultation. (616) 226-3762.
