Dog bites and other animal attacks are a major source of personal injuries. In the United States alone, almost 5 million people were bitten by dogs last year. Of these, about half are children.
Even though dog bites are so common and the law clearly provides remedies for victims of dog bites, the number of people who recover in a lawsuit for their dog bite injuries is much smaller than the number of people who are bitten. The reason is that many people make a number of mistakes that can ruin their dog bite case.
Don’t let these mistakes cost YOU thousands of dollars!
Missing the Statute of Limitations: Michigan law requires anyone filing a lawsuit for a dog bite case to file within 3 years of the dog bite. If someone waits longer than 3 years, they cannot file their dog bite lawsuit no matter how bad their injuries are or how clear it is that they deserve to win their case. Although 3 years may seem like a long time, each year thousands of people do not file their cases and lose their rights. Make sure you contact a lawyer as soon as you can.
Failing to seek immediate medical attention: By getting prompt medical attention, a dog bite victim ensures professional treatment will minimize the severity of any injuries as well as the risk of infection. The victim also ensures the injuries are well documented. If a victim does not seek prompt medical attention, the dog owner’s insurance company will very likely argue that the injuries were not severe or that they were not caused by the dog. Seek medical attention immediately after the dog bite.
Failing to get the name and address of the dog owner and any witnesses: It can be very hard to track down the dog owner or witnesses after the dog bite occurs. People move frequently. In addition, witnesses may become unwilling to help out or they may simply forget all the details of the attack. Get reliable contact information from the owner and witnesses.
Failing to file a police report: When a report is filed, the police or animal control will investigate the dog and check their records to determine if the animal has ever attacked another person. The report also creates another written record of your injuries. File a report as soon as you can.
Failing to take photos: Taking pictures of your injuries preserves evidence of the full extent of your injuries. If you wait until trial to show the defendant your injuries, it will often be difficult to show how severe they were at the time of the attack. Take photos immediately.
Meeting with the defendant’s insurance adjuster or investigator: The insurance adjuster or investigator works for the insurance company and has the sole goal of limiting the insurance company’s liability for your injuries. He or she may try to get you to say things that are damaging to your lawsuit or accept a quick settlement for much less than the case is worth. Do not speak to anyone from the insurance company. Instead, refer them to your lawyer.
Failing to hire an experienced lawyer who has handled dog bite cases before: A lawyer who has successfully handled dog bite cases and who knows how to get the full value of your case from the insurance company is important for your case to succeed and for your own peace of mind. Your lawyer is your advocate. If you don’t think he is doing everything he can for you, hire someone who will.
If you would like more information about your rights after a Dog Bite attack, you can order our FREE book, “The Ultimate Michigan Dog Bite & Animal Attack Handbook” by clicking on the book link. We will send it out immediately along with other important information.
For more information about Michigan dog bite cases, visit our law firm web site at www.BuckfireLaw.com If you would like to speak with one of our Michigan dog bite attorneys about your case, feel free to call us anytime at (800) 606-1717 or simply submit this contact form and we will get back to you quickly.
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