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Dog bites account for a staggering amount of injuries each year in the United States. In fact, approximately 800,000 dog bite attacks occur each year in the US that require medical treatment. Many of the dog bite victims are children and each year, thousands of children are seriously injured or killed by dangerous dogs.
The cost of the dog bite attacks in medical bills alone is staggering. Unfortunately, the emotional cost to the victims is even higher. When a dog bites once it is more likely to bite again. By pursuing your claim for damages we may be able to prevent another innocent victim from being bitten by the same dog.
What to do After a Dog Bite Attack
After you have made sure the dog bite victim is safe or at least receiving proper medical attention, it is important to do the following:
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Determine the name of the dog.
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Determine the name and address of the dog's owner.
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Get the names, addresses and phone numbers of all witnesses to the incident.
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Take photos of the location of the incident.
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Order DNA testing of any saliva of the dog around the wound or on the victim's clothing.
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Have the treating physician perform an in-depth evaluation of the wound.
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If possible, take photographs of the wound.
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Do not permit the dog to be destroyed until after DNA testing as well as a mouth casting have been performed. This evidence will help with your dog bite lawsuit.
In Michigan, liability for dog bites can generally be established in two ways. First, a dog owner is strictly liable if its dog bites another individual. The only exception to this rule is if the dog was provoked. In this type of case, the bite itself establishes liability and the only question becomes how much money should be paid to compensate the victim. The second way a dog owner can be found liable for money damages is if the owner knew or should have known of the dog's violent propensities and negligently failed to protect the victim from being bitten. If a dog has bitten you or your loved ones, you should contact the Law Office of Neil A. Davis, PLC so we can discuss your particular situation to determine whether or not you have a case.
Contact the Davis Law Center today at 248-865-7740 or contact by email at ndavislaw@ameritech.net .
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