What Every Michigan Resident Should Know About Dog Bite Laws
Michigan has some of the strongest dog bite victim protections in the country. If you or a family member has been bitten by a dog anywhere in Michigan, understanding your legal rights is the first step toward fair compensation. Here is what victims need to know about Michigan's dog bite statutes, the claims process, and what your case may be worth.
Michigan's Dog Bite Statute: Strict Liability
Under MCL § 287.351, Michigan imposes strict liability on dog owners for bite injuries. This means you do not need to prove the owner was careless, that the dog had a history of aggression, or that the owner knew the dog was dangerous. If the dog bit you and you were legally allowed to be where you were, the owner is liable. This applies whether the bite happened on public property, on the owner's property (if you were an invited guest, mail carrier, delivery person, or other lawful visitor), or on someone else's property.
The Provocation Defense
The only meaningful defense available to dog owners is provocation. Under MCL § 287.351(2), if the victim provoked the dog, strict liability does not apply. Insurance companies frequently raise this defense — especially in cases involving children — arguing that the child "startled" or "teased" the dog. Michigan courts have generally held that normal, expected behavior around dogs (petting, walking past, making noise) does not constitute provocation. Koussan Law aggressively fights provocation defenses to protect our clients' claims.
Statute of Limitations
Michigan's statute of limitations for dog bite claims is three years from the date of the bite under MCL § 600.5805. For minor children, the clock is tolled until the child turns 18 — but waiting that long is never advisable because evidence degrades, witnesses become unavailable, and medical causation becomes harder to establish. Filing promptly protects your claim.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Michigan
Seek immediate medical attention — dog bites carry serious infection risk including rabies. Report the bite to local animal control (required under Michigan law). Photograph your injuries and the location where the attack occurred. Get the owner's name, address, and insurance information. Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance company before consulting an attorney. And document your recovery — photographs of healing wounds, medical records, and a symptom journal all strengthen your case.
Damages in Michigan Dog Bite Cases
Recoverable damages include all medical treatment (emergency care, surgery, antibiotics, plastic surgery, physical therapy), lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress and PTSD, permanent scarring and disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. Children's cases often involve significant future medical costs for scar revision as they grow. Koussan Law has recovered substantial settlements for dog bite victims across Michigan. Call (313) 800-0000 for a free consultation.
Use our free Case Calculator to estimate your dog bite claim value.
