Grand Rapids, Michigan, Dog Bite Lawyers Advocating For Your Interests
Dog bites can be very serious and painful, and they can require expensive treatment. Unfortunately, they sometimes involve a dog owned by someone you know. Many people fear it will be awkward to make a dog bite claim.
We understand. You need reimbursement for your treatment, but you may not want to sue your friend or neighbor. The good news is that your claim will usually be against the dog owner’s homeowner insurance policy.
It is important to understand that, in Michigan, dog owners are strictly liable for any injuries their dogs cause by unprovoked biting. That means that if you have been bitten by a dog, the owner – or their homeowner’s insurance company – is generally responsible for covering your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This is true even if the owner took reasonable steps to prevent the attack.
A Michigan dog bite lawyer from Mabbitt Bhimani Law can help you understand your rights, walk you through the claims process, and advocate for full, fair compensation for your injuries and losses. From our offices in Grand Rapids and Muskegon, we help people throughout the state who are coping with the aftermath of dog bites.
Why Choose Mabbitt Bhimani Law For Your Dog Bite Case?
Our law firm stands out because we do more than litigate; we prepare meticulously and think strategically to ensure that your case is presented in a compelling way. Here is why our approach makes a difference:
- Intellectual preparation: We believe in being better prepared than our opposing counsel. We don’t just argue, we persuade.
- Client-centered representation: Every client is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
- Trial-ready lawyers: While many cases settle out of court, we are always ready to go to trial if that is what’s necessary to achieve a fair outcome. We have one of the finest trial records in the industry.
Beyond our abilities and thorough preparation, we care about our clients. We will get to know you and keep you fully apprised of your claim.
How We Handle These Difficult Claims
When you choose Mabbitt Bhimani Law to handle your dog bite claim, you can expect comprehensive support throughout the legal process. Here is how we will work with you:
- Offering a free initial consultation to discuss the specifics of your incident and potential paths forward
- Gathering evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions Handling all communications with insurance companies and opposing counsel
- Developing a strong case strategy to present in negotiations or at trial
We understand that a serious dog bite or maul injury can be devastating. We are committed to helping you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites
Below are some basic questions and answers about dog bites in Michigan.
What are dog owners’ responsibilities?
In Michigan, dog owners are strictly liable for any injuries their dogs cause by biting someone, provided the bite was unprovoked and the person was not trespassing.
In general, you must make a claim within three years of the date of the bite. However, you should talk to a lawyer as soon as possible because it becomes harder over time to make your claim. The evidence can be harder to access and witnesses’ memories fade.
How much could my case be worth?
The value of a dog bite case depends on numerous factors, including:<
- The circumstances of the bite
- The severity of the injuries
- The medical costs already incurred
- Estimated future medical costs, including cosmetic surgery, rehabilitation and mental health care
- Any lost wages due to the bite
- Whether the injuries are permanent
- Whether the bite scar is disfiguring
Your dog bite settlement or award should include payment for all these losses to the extent we can determine them. An experienced Michigan dog bite lawyer can give you a sense of what your individual case could be worth.
Do dog bites need to be reported in Michigan?
In general, you should report dog bites to the police or animal control, especially if medical treatment was necessary. This does not necessarily mean the dog will be destroyed. You should also report the incident to the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurer.
Do You Think You Have A Claim? Contact Us Today.
When the unexpected strikes and you find yourself grappling with a personal injury, having a compassionate and knowledgeable legal team by your side can make a profound difference. We are personal injury attorneys who bring a great deal of combined experience to the table, coupled with a deep understanding of the intricate nuances involved in such cases.
If you need an attorney to protect your interests throughout the duration of your claim, contact Mabbitt Bhimani Law. We are ready to help you understand your rights and options.
Call us at 616-326-1111 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.