Understanding Michigan’s Dog Bite Law and Your Rights After an Attack

Dog bites can happen anywhere — a neighborhood walk, a friend’s home, or a public park. Because these injuries often occur when you least expect them, it’s important to understand what Michigan law says about dog attacks and what victims can do to protect themselves. Michigan has one of the strongest dog bite laws in the country, and knowing how it works can make a major difference if you or your child has been injured. We have represented dog bite owners for decades, litigating cases and helping injured victims received compensation.

Michigan’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law

Under MCL 287.351, Michigan follows a strict liability standard for dog bites. This means the dog’s owner is responsible when their dog bites someone who is lawfully on the property. Unlike many states, Michigan does not require a previous history of aggression. The first bite is enough.

You do not need to prove:

• Negligence

• Prior attacks

• That the owner knew the dog was dangerous

If the bite occurred and you were legally allowed to be there, the law generally supports your right to compensation.

Common Injuries Caused by Dog Attacks

Dog bites are far more serious than most people assume. Victims often suffer:

• Deep cuts and puncture wounds

• Nerve damage or limited mobility

• Infection requiring antibiotics or hospitalization

• Permanent scarring or disfigurement

• Emotional trauma and anxiety around dogs

Children are especially vulnerable, both physically and emotionally, making early legal action crucial.

Available Compensation for Dog Bite Victims

Most dog bite claims are paid through homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Compensation may include:

• Medical bills

• Plastic surgery or scar revision

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress

• Long-term care for severe injuries

Because scarring and trauma can evolve over time, proper documentation and medical follow-up are important.

When to Speak With a Dog Bite Lawyer

Even with strict liability, insurance companies often try to lower payouts by shifting blame or minimizing injuries. A dog bite lawyer helps by:

• Proving liability under Michigan law

• Gathering medical evidence

• Documenting long-term effects, including scarring

• Negotiating with insurers

• Ensuring victims and children receive full compensation

Legal guidance early on prevents mistakes that can reduce your claim later.

Final Thoughts

Dog bites can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. If you were injured, understanding your rights under Michigan’s strict liability law can help you take the next steps with confidence. A qualified dog bite lawyer can guide you through the process and protect your right to fair compensation. Call 231-486-6556 to speak with an attorney today.

Questions to Ask an Injury Lawyer

People often wait too long before getting advice, sometimes because they think the situation will “sort itself out.” In Northern Michigan, waiting can make everything harder because of short deadlines and quickly disappearing evidence.

It’s usually time to talk to an attorney if:

• You’re still hurting days or weeks after the accident

• You missed work or can’t do your regular job

• Insurance is slow-walking or denying benefits

• The other driver is blaming you

• The crash involved tourists, out-of-state drivers, or rental vehicles

• Your injuries involve the neck, back, shoulder, knee, or head

• You feel like you’re doing everything on your own

Most injury lawyers in Northern Michigan offer free consultations, so asking questions doesn’t cost anything.

A simple conversation can reveal a lot. Try asking:

• “How often do you handle cases in Northern Michigan?”

• “What do you see most often with accidents in this area?”

• “How will you deal with my insurance company?”

• “What’s your experience with No-Fault issues like PIP disputes?”

• “Do I pay anything upfront?”

If the lawyer doesn’t regularly handle injury cases in Northern Michigan, you’ll notice right away. Give us a call today: 231-486-6556.

Up North Accident Lawyer

Injury Lawyer in Northern Michigan: What People Up North Should Know After an Accident

If you’re dealing with injuries after an accident in Northern Michigan, there’s a good chance you’re overwhelmed — medical appointments, insurance calls, missed work, all of it stacking up fast. People in this region often search for help from an injury lawyer in Northern Michigan because the laws here aren’t always simple, and the accidents that happen up north have their own patterns.

This guide walks through what someone in Northern Michigan should know after a crash or serious injury, especially if they’re trying to figure out whether it’s time to talk to an attorney.

Northern Michigan isn’t like the rest of the state. We get longer winters, sharper temperature drops, winding lake roads, and endless stretches of two-lane highways. All of that affects how and why accidents happen.

Some of the most common issues include:

• Black ice on M-72, U.S. 131, and the rural roads outside Petoskey and Gaylord

• Deer crashes near Boyne City, Grayling, and Cheboygan

• Summer tourist congestion around Traverse City and Harbor Springs

• Snowmobile and ORV injuries, especially in the Upper part of the region

• Boating and marina accidents once the lake season opens

When an accident happens in a place as spread-out as Northern Michigan, emergency response times can be longer — and that alone can magnify the seriousness of injuries.

Someone who spends most of their time in Detroit courts or Grand Rapids offices may be an excellent attorney, but up north works differently. A lawyer who regularly handles cases in Northern Michigan has a clearer sense of the challenges here.

They tend to understand:

• How crashes happen on rural and seasonal roads

• How snowmobile and ORV injuries are handled

• How local medical systems (Munson, McLaren, emergency clinics) process accident-related billing

• Which insurers frequently dispute PIP benefits

• How quickly evidence disappears due to weather and tourism patterns

Local familiarity shortens the time it takes to build a strong claim — and that matters when evidence can get buried under snow or washed away overnight.

While accidents happen everywhere, the mix of cases up north is noticeably different from Michigan’s bigger cities.

The most common injury cases include:

• Car and truck accidents on U.S. 131, I-75, U.S. 31, and M-32

• Motorcycle and bicycle accidents along scenic routes (including M-22)

• Snowmobile collisions or trail injuries

• ORV/ATV accidents on seasonal or unpaved roads

• Boat, marina, and jet-ski injuries

• Slip-and-fall injuries at cabins, resorts, and seasonal businesses

Each one requires different evidence, different timing, and often different insurance rules. Talking with an injury lawyer who understands Northern Michigan can help you focus on getting better while they sort out the insurance issues, medical bills, and legal details. Call today for your free consultation: 231-486-6556.

When To Hire An Injury Lawyer

What Is Auto Negligence Law?

Auto negligence law governs how liability and compensation are determined after a car crash. If another driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

These cases typically fall under personal injury law and involve negligence claims, which require proving:
✅ The other driver owed you a duty of care (e.g., following traffic laws).
✅ They breached that duty (e.g., reckless driving, DUI, texting while driving).
✅ Their negligence directly caused your injuries.
✅ You suffered damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering).

When to Hire an Auto Accident Lawyer?

You should consult a lawyer if:

✔ You suffered serious injuries (broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries).
✔ The insurance company denies or undervalues your claim.
✔ The accident involved a hit-and-run, uninsured driver, or multiple parties.
✔ You face medical bills, lost wages, or long-term disability.

Most personal injury lawyers offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis (you don’t pay unless you win).

The amount you can recover depends on:

Medical expenses (hospital bills, physical therapy, medications).
Lost income (time off work or reduced earning capacity).
Pain and suffering (emotional distress, reduced quality of life).
Property damage (repair or replacement of your vehicle).

Contact us for a free consultation today.

Spring Driving in Michigan and Repairing Damage

Spring Driving in Michigan: Navigating the Roads Under No-Fault Insurance Law

As winter's grip loosens and Michigan transitions into spring, drivers face unique challenges on the roads. Melting snow can lead to wet, slippery conditions, and the emergence of potholes can make driving more hazardous. Understanding how Michigan's no-fault insurance law applies during this season is crucial for all motorists.

Understanding Michigan's No-Fault Insurance Law

Michigan operates under a no-fault auto insurance system. This means that after an accident, your own insurance policy covers your medical expenses and certain other losses, regardless of who was at fault.

Tips for Safe Spring Driving

• Stay Alert: Be vigilant for potholes and avoid swerving suddenly to miss them, which can cause accidents.

• Maintain Safe Speeds: Wet roads can reduce traction; adjust your speed accordingly.

• Watch for Animals: Especially during dawn and dusk, when wildlife is most active.

• Observe Construction Signs: Follow posted speed limits and be prepared for sudden stops in work zones.

Under Michigan's no-fault system:

• Vehicle Damage from Potholes: Repairs for damage caused by potholes are typically covered under collision coverage, which is optional. Without this coverage, you may be responsible for repair costs.

• Accidents Involving Wildlife: Collisions with animals are usually covered under comprehensive coverage, another optional policy component.

• Construction Zone Accidents: If you're involved in an accident in a construction zone, your PIP coverage will handle your medical expenses, but vehicle damages will depend on your policy's collision coverage..

By staying informed about Michigan's no-fault insurance laws and adjusting your driving habits for spring conditions, you can navigate the roads safely and ensure you're adequately protected.

What Will An Insurance Company Pay For A Totaled Car

In Michigan, a car is considered a total loss, or "totaled," when the cost of repairs plus the salvage value equals or exceeds a percentage of the vehicle's actual cash value (ACV). In Michigan, this threshold is typically set at 75% of the vehicle's ACV.

Whether you were hit by an uninsured driver or not, getting full value for your car from your insurance company is a challenge. Often insurance companies will ignore you or low-ball you and ask you to take a payoff that is too low. We regularly assist clients in getting maximum value for a totalled vehicle.

Additionally, an at-fault driver’s insurance company may also have to pay up to $3,000 under the mini-tort law to compensate you for the loss of your vehicle or property.

To discuss your specific situation, contact our attorneys at 231-486-6556 today.

Tips for Winter Driving

Winter in Michigan brings picturesque views and outdoor activities, but it also ushers in challenging driving conditions. With icy roads, snow-covered highways, and freezing temperatures, the risk of car accidents increases and everyone should be prepared as a driver.

Understanding Michigan Car Accident Laws in Winter:

a. No-Fault Insurance: Michigan operates on a no-fault insurance system, which means each driver's insurance covers their own medical expenses, regardless of fault.

b. Winter Road Conditions: Drivers are expected to adjust their driving to accommodate winter weather conditions, and negligence in doing so may result in liability.

Tips for Preventing Winter Car Accidents in Michigan:

a. Slow Down: Reduced speeds provide more time to react to unexpected hazards and improve traction on slippery roads.

b. Maintain Safe Following Distances: Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front to allow for additional braking time.

c. Winter Tires: Consider investing in winter tires designed for cold weather conditions, providing better traction on snow and ice.

d. Brake Carefully: Apply brakes gently to avoid skidding, especially when approaching intersections or making turns.

e. Clear Snow and Ice: Remove all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving to ensure visibility and prevent hazards for other drivers.

Michigan's Winter Driving Laws:

a. Headlights On: Michigan law requires drivers to turn on their headlights when visibility is reduced to 500 feet or less.

b. Snow Removal: Failing to clear accumulated snow and ice from your vehicle's roof, hood, and windows can result in fines.

What to Do in Case of an Accident:

a. Safety First: Ensure the safety of all involved parties. Move to a safe location and turn on hazard lights.

b. Contact Authorities: Report the accident to the police and seek medical attention for any injuries.

c. Document the Scene: Exchange insurance information with other drivers, take photos of the scene, and gather witness contact details.

d. Notify Your Insurance: Inform your insurance company about the accident promptly and provide accurate information.

By staying informed about Michigan's winter driving regulations, you can navigate the winter months with confidence and reduce the risk of accidents on the icy roads. Stay safe, stay cautious, and enjoy the beauty of Michigan's winter responsibly.

New Distracted Driving Law Begins June 30

Starting June 30, 2023, Michigan will no longer permit using cell phones while driving except in emergency situations. Drivers should expect aggressive enforcement once the law begins. Drivers will also be barred from taking photos or vidoes, using social media, or holding phones while making a phone call.

Thousands of deaths occur due to distracted driving each year and many more accidents most likely go unreported due to the difficulty in retrieving cellular phone use.

https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-government/hands-free-distracted-driving-law-takes-effect-june-30-michigan

What to do if hit by uninsured driver?

A recent study of Michigan driver’s found that 25.5% of Michigan drivers were uninsured, the second highest percentage in the country. So, how do you protect yourself when hit by an uninsured driver?

1. Call the police. Uninsured drivers have little incentive to stop or give correct information since it is against the law to driver without insurance.

2. Look for witnesses. Get the names and phone numbers of witnesses who may be able to assist you with identifying the driver.

3. Don’t accept money from the uninsured driver.

4. Report your accident to your insurance company. You can collect No-Fault benefits and often pain and suffering damages from your own insurance company even if the other driver is uninsured. Your policy should have limits of what you may collect in certain instances and we suggest you have at least $500,000 in uninsured/undersinured motorist benefits.

   For further information, please call our attorneys at 231-486-6556.

Court Rules No-Fault Benefits Time Extended

If your insurance company has failed to pay you No-Fault benefits as a result of a car or truck accident, you should be aware of the new law that may allow you additional time to file a lawsuit against the insurance company for wrongfully withheld medical and other benefits.

While you generally have one year to file a lawsuit to recover No-Fault first-party benefits, the Michigan Court of Appeals recently ruled that an insurance company must formally deny the request for benefits in order for the time to file a lawsuit continues to accrue.

If you have been injured in a car or truck accident, please contact our attorneys for a free consultation at 231-486-6556.