What Are Your Legal Options If Bitten By The Dog Of A Friend Or Relative?

Most dog bite victims know the animal and its owner. This can lead to an uncomfortable situation and a difficult choice — suing someone you know or absorbing thousands of dollars in losses.

What you need to know is that dog bite claims are typically covered by homeowners insurance. In fact, one-third of all homeowners claims are dog-related. People have insurance for just such a scenario.

Experienced Handling Of A Sensitive Situation

The attorneys of Bredell & Bredell have practiced in personal injury since 1984. We have handled countless dog bite cases over the years, including plenty of cases in which the offending dog belonged to a neighbor, friend or family member. Many times, an otherwise friendly dog with no history of vicious behavior attacked without warning or provocation. (They may be family pets, but they are still animals.)

Under Michigan law, it is not necessary to blame the owner or prove negligence. Dog owners are strictly liable for any harm caused by their animals, with few exceptions or defenses. This actually makes it easier to bring a claim for dog bite compensation — it is a straightforward insurance matter.

The main role of a lawyer is to demonstrate damages — medical treatment, plastic surgery, permanent scarring, lost wages, disability, pain and suffering, and any post-traumatic effects. We will negotiate with the insurance adjusters on your behalf and if necessary deal with the dog owner and their legal counsel so that you avoid an unpleasant confrontation.

There Is Too Much At Stake Not To Pursue A Claim

Call Bredell & Bredell if you know the dog owner but need to be compensated fully and fairly. We offer a free consultation and take no attorney fees unless we recover compensation. We have offices in Ypsilanti and Jackson. Call 734-482-5000, or use our online form to tell us about your case.