Dog bites can happen in an instant and often leave lasting scars for the victim, both physically and emotionally. Regardless of whether it’s a family pet that suddenly turns aggressive or a loose dog roaming the neighborhood, these accidents can change lives in a matter of seconds. Victims may face painful wounds and mounting financial expenses that can quickly become debilitating.
Under Michigan law, dog owners are generally held strictly liable when their pet bites a person. That means you usually don’t have to prove negligence to pursue compensation. Still, the severity and nature of the injuries can determine the value of your case and the care you’ll need moving forward.
If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, a dog bite attorney at Khamo Law can help you understand your rights, seek fair compensation, and start rebuilding your life. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Soft Tissue and Puncture Wounds
One of the most common results of a dog bite is puncture wounds. A dog’s sharp teeth can tear through the skin and muscle, leaving deep, painful injuries that can quickly become infected. Immediate medical attention is critical to prevent complications.
Victims may also suffer torn ligaments, muscle damage, and bruising when a dog clamps down or shakes. These soft tissue injuries can take weeks or even months to heal, sometimes requiring surgery or physical therapy to restore full mobility.
A dog bite lawyer can help you recover compensation for these medical expenses and ongoing treatment costs.
Facial, Head, and Nerve Injuries
Dogs often lunge toward the face, neck, and arms when attacking. This can lead to serious damage, such as:
- Severe cuts and facial scarring
- Broken bones and fractures
- Eye injuries
- Nerve damage that causes long-term numbness
Reconstructive surgery may be necessary in these circumstances, along with counseling to address the trauma. When bites cut deep, they can also damage nerves and lead to chronic pain or loss of feeling in the affected area.
Wrongful Death From Dog Attacks
Though rare, some dog attacks are fatal. Children, older adults, and individuals with disabilities are especially vulnerable to severe injuries that can lead to wrongful death.
Families who lose a loved one in a dog attack have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim under Michigan law. This type of case can help recover compensation for things like funeral and burial costs, loss of companionship, emotional pain, and the financial support the victim would have provided.
No amount of money can make up for such a tragedy, but holding the dog’s owner liable can bring closure and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Common Causes of Dog Bite Injuries
Dog attacks often occur because an owner fails to act responsibly. Some of the most common causes include:
- Owner negligence: Leaving dogs unsupervised or failing to secure a fence
- Poor training or socialization: Dogs that aren’t accustomed to people or other animals
- Protective behavior: Guarding territory and their owners
- Provocation: Startling and/or threatening a dog, often unintentionally
- Children’s interactions: Young children may not recognize warning signs before a dog reacts
Responsible pet ownership and practicing situational awareness are key steps owners can take toward preventing these incidents. If you’ve been attacked, a dog bite attorney can investigate what happened and help build a strong case for compensation.
Contact a Sterling Heights Dog Bite Lawyer With Khamo Law Today
Dog bite injuries can be painful and expensive. Fortunately, Michigan law has relatively victim-friendly dog attack laws, allowing you to take legal action in most cases under a strict liability cause of action.
If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog, don’t wait to get legal guidance. Call Khamo Law today at (248) 466-0606 to schedule a free consultation with a dog bite attorney in Sterling Heights and learn more about your options for recovery.