Dogs are the country’s most popular pets, but these loveable companions aren’t without their dangers. Even a seemingly docile animal can turn violent in an instant, causing serious damage as its teeth rip through skin, tissue, and muscles.
If you were bitten by a dog, you might be feeling completely overwhelmed. While many of us are prepared for what to do after a car wreck or even a slip and fall, no one can anticipate the pain, health complications, and sky-high medical bills that often follow a violent animal attack. In this article, we answer a few of the most common questions about dog bite claims in Michigan to help give you some clarity during this challenging chapter of your life.
1. What Types of Evidence Could Help Support My Claim?
In Detroit, dog owners are held strictly liable for any harm caused by their pets. As such, even if the animal didn’t have a violent history, the owner is still responsible for compensating the injured party for their damages. However, there are a few exceptions. If, for example, the owner can show that you were trespassing on their property when you were attacked, or that you provoked the animal, you may be denied a financial award.
As such, you will need to gather strong evidence to show that not only was the attack unprovoked, but that you were not violating the law when the dog bit you. Such evidence could include surveillance camera footage, eyewitness statements, and photographs from the area where you were attacked.
2. How Much Is My Claim Worth?
Unfortunately, no attorney can guarantee a specific outcome in your case. The amount you will receive can depend on several factors, such as whether your injuries prevented you from working, the severity of your injuries, and whether you had to modify your home or vehicle to accommodate any resulting limitations. A skilled dog bite attorney can help approximate fair compensation for your damages by investigating the attack, reviewing the available evidence, and consulting with expert witnesses if necessary.
3. Should I Visit the Doctor Even If My Injuries Aren’t Serious?
Yes. You should always undergo a comprehensive medical assessment after an animal attack. Not only can dog bite wounds become infected, but you may also have sustained puncture injuries that have yet to manifest with symptoms. A prompt diagnosis can help ensure that you don’t develop additional health complications.
However, visiting the doctor is about more than just taking care of your health. Taking this crucial step could also help you avoid disputes over failure to mitigate damages and make it easier to tie your injuries to the attack.
Speak with a Detroit Dog Bite Attorney Today
Were you the victim of an animal attack? You may be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and other damages by filing a personal injury claim against the pet’s owner. At Seva Law Firm, we can assess your situation as part of a free case review. Dial (248) 385-5704 or visit our contact page HERE to request a consultation with a Detroit personal injury attorney.
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