What Criteria Do You Need to Meet In Order To Be Able to File a Dog Bite Case in Michigan?

If you have sustained a dog bite, you may be able to file a dog bite personal injury case with the assistance of a dog bite lawyer in Detroit. However, one of the most common questions that people have in regard to these types of legal cases is what criteria must be met in order to have a compensable case, or a case you can win. Here are some of the criteria you must meet in order to be successful with a dog bite personal injury case.

Must-Have an Actual Injury Caused By a Dog Bite

In the state of Michigan, in order to be able to file a dog bite personal injury case, you must have sustained an actual injury caused by a dog bite. You also must have received medical care for that bite. This means that you cannot file a dog bite case because a dog scratched you or knocked you over. The dog has to actually bite you and cause enough damage due to the bite that you had to receive medical treatment.

Must Not Have Provoked or Harassed the Dog

You also must not have provoked or harassed the dog. Dogs can bite if someone is provoking them or harassing them. If you were pulling their tell or barking or growling at the dog, that is considered provocation and harassment. If you provoked the dog, the dog may have been trying to protect themselves from you when they bit. If the owner can prove your actions led to you being bitten, you may not have a case that you can be compensated for.

Must Have Been on Public Property or Be Invited Onto the Owner’s Property

The final criteria that you need to meet in order to be able to file a dog bite case in Michigan revolve around where the bite took place. You must have been on public property or been invited onto the owner’s property when you were bitten. If you were illegally on the owner’s property or on private property you should not have been on when the dog bit you, you may not have a compensable case.

It is extremely important to note that the criteria for filing and winning personal injury cases, including dog bite injury cases, can vary from state to state. The criteria listed above is specific to dog bite cases in the state of Michigan. If you meet all of the above criteria, reach out to a dog bite lawyer in Detroit today to schedule a free consultation with an attorney and to learn how to proceed with your case.