Michigan's Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Michigan is a strict liability state for dog bite injuries. Under MCL § 287.351, a dog owner is liable for damages if their dog bites someone who was lawfully on the property or in a public place — regardless of whether the dog had ever bitten anyone before. Unlike many other states, Michigan does not follow a "one free bite" rule. If the dog bites, the owner pays. Period.
When Landlords Are Also Liable
Dog bite liability does not always stop at the dog's owner. Michigan courts have held landlords liable for tenant dog bites in certain circumstances. If a landlord knew (or should have known) that a tenant's dog was dangerous and had the ability to remove the dog or the tenant but failed to act, the landlord may share liability. This is particularly relevant in Detroit, Dearborn, and other Wayne County municipalities where multi-unit rental properties are common and landlords retain control over common areas where dog attacks frequently occur.
Injuries Beyond the Bite
Dog attacks cause far more than puncture wounds. Koussan Law has represented Michigan victims with severe lacerations requiring reconstructive surgery, crush injuries from large breeds, infections including rabies exposure, nerve damage and permanent scarring, broken bones from being knocked down (especially children and elderly victims), and post-traumatic stress disorder — which is compensable under Michigan personal injury law. Children are the most frequent victims of severe dog attacks, and their injuries often require years of follow-up treatment including scar revision surgery.
Proving Your Michigan Dog Bite Claim
While Michigan's strict liability statute eliminates the need to prove the owner was negligent, you still must prove that the bite occurred, that the defendant owned or harbored the dog, and that you were lawfully present at the location. Provocation is the primary defense — under MCL § 287.351(2), if you provoked the dog, strict liability does not apply. Koussan Law gathers animal control reports, medical records, witness statements, and veterinary history to build airtight cases.
Compensation Available
Michigan dog bite victims can recover medical expenses (emergency treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, future care), lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and scarring/disfigurement damages. For severe attacks, particularly those involving children, the damages can be substantial. Contact Koussan Law at (313) 800-0000 for a free case evaluation or try our case calculator.
