Who Pays After a Dog Bite Injury in Michigan?
Dog bites happen fast — and the consequences can be serious. Medical bills, lost work, and lasting scars are just a few of the costs victims face. The good news is that Michigan has some of the strongest protections for dog bite victims in the country. If someone else’s dog injured you, you may be entitled to full compensation for your damages — often through homeowner’s insurance or other coverage.
Here’s what you need to know.
Michigan’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Under MCL 287.351, Michigan follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. This means:
- If a dog bites someone,
- And the person was lawfully on the property,
- And the person did not provoke the dog,the dog owner is automatically responsible for the damages — even if the dog never bit anyone before.
Learn more about how we help victims on our Dog Bite Injury page.
Who Actually Pays After a Dog Bite
In most Michigan cases, the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance is responsible for paying your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. This can include:
- Medical Expenses
- Lost income from missed work
- Pain and suffering
Many victims worry about “suing a neighbor” — but in most cases, insurance pays, not the person out of pocket.
What to Do Right After a Dog Bite
- Get medical care immediately. Even minor bites can cause serious infections.
- Identify the dog and its owner. Get names, contact info, and (if possible) insurance details.
- Take photos of your injuries and the location where the bite occurred.
- Report the incident to animal control or local authorities.
- Avoid giving statements to insurance companies without legal advice.
The more documentation you have early on, the stronger your claim will be.
Common Questions About Michigan Dog Bite Claims
Do I have to prove the dog was dangerous?
No. Michigan’s strict liability law does not require proof of prior bites or aggression.
What if I was bitten by a friend’s or neighbor’s dog?
Most claims are handled through the owner’s insurance, not out of their personal finances. It’s common for claims to resolve without personal conflict.
What if it wasn’t technically a “bite”?
If you were injured in another way (knocked down, scratched, etc.), you may still have a negligence claim even if strict liability doesn’t apply.
How much compensation can I receive?
It depends on the severity of your injuries, medical costs, scarring, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A lawyer can help calculate the full value of your claim.
Why Call a Lawyer After a Dog Bite
Insurance companies may try to downplay dog bite injuries or pressure you to settle quickly. A Grand Rapids personal injury lawyer – JKH Law can help you:
- Identify all available insurance coverage
- Collect and preserve evidence
- Prove liability under Michigan’s strict dog bite statute
- Maximize your recovery and handle negotiations
Dog bites can be traumatizing — physically, emotionally, and financially. You don’t have to figure it out alone. If you or a loved one was injured by someone else’s dog, our team at JKH Law can help.
Schedule a free consultation today to learn your rights and next steps.