Can I File A Dog Bite Lawsuit If I Was On Someone Else’s Property?
When you’re bitten by a dog, the injuries can be severe and life-altering. It’s even more stressful when the bite occurs on someone else’s property. We’re often asked whether you can still file a dog bite lawsuit in Michigan if you weren’t on public property at the time of the incident. The short answer is yes. Michigan law provides strong protections for dog bite victims, even if the attack happens on private property. The key questions revolve around your legal status on the property and whether the dog was provoked.
As personal injury attorneys serving Detroit and all of Michigan, we’ve helped many clients pursue claims after being bitten on someone else’s land—including homes, driveways, yards, and rental properties. Dog owners have a duty to control their animals, and when they fail to do so, they can be held accountable under state law. If you were lawfully on the property, you may be entitled to full compensation for your injuries.
Michigan’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Michigan is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites. Under MCL 287.351, a dog owner is liable for damages if:
- The victim was lawfully on public or private property
- The dog bite caused the injury
- The victim did not provoke the dog
This means you do not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. The law applies even if the dog had never shown aggression before. As long as you were lawfully on the property, the owner can be held financially responsible.
Lawful presence includes being invited or permitted to be there, such as a social guest, delivery person, contractor, or tenant. Trespassers may not be protected under this statute, but each case is fact-specific.
What If The Dog Owner Claims You Were Trespassing?
This is a common defense raised by dog owners. However, being on private property does not automatically make you a trespasser. If you were invited, had implied permission, or had a legal reason to be there, you are generally considered lawfully present.
Michigan courts have recognized that even meter readers, postal workers, and food delivery drivers typically have a right to enter a property to perform their jobs. If the dog owner tries to argue you were trespassing, we look closely at your reason for being there and gather evidence to support your lawful presence.
Does Provocation Affect Your Right To Sue?
Yes. If it’s proven that you provoked the dog, you may be barred from recovering damages under Michigan’s dog bite law. Provocation includes actions like hitting, teasing, or threatening the dog in a way that causes it to react defensively.
The burden is on the dog owner to prove provocation. Many owners attempt to shift blame, so we take these claims seriously. We work with witnesses, medical experts, and sometimes animal behavior specialists to dispute provocation arguments.
What Damages Can You Recover In A Dog Bite Lawsuit?
If you were bitten while lawfully on someone else’s property, and provocation is not an issue, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills and future treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Emotional distress
Dog bite injuries often lead to infection, nerve damage, and long-term complications. Children are especially vulnerable. We make sure your claim reflects the full scope of your losses.
FAQs About Dog Bites On Private Property In Michigan
Can I Sue If I Was Bitten On A Friend’s Property?
Yes. If you were lawfully on your friend’s property and did not provoke the dog, you can bring a claim under Michigan’s dog bite statute. Most claims are covered by the homeowner’s insurance policy, so the legal action doesn’t necessarily target your friend personally.
What If I Was Delivering A Package And Got Bitten?
Delivery drivers are generally considered lawfully present on private property while performing their duties. Under MCL 287.351, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries if you were not trespassing or provoking the dog.
Does It Matter If The Dog Had Never Bitten Anyone Before?
No. Michigan law does not require proof that the dog had a history of aggression. Dog owners are strictly liable for bites under the law, regardless of the dog’s past behavior.
How Can You Prove I Was Lawfully On The Property?
We use evidence such as security footage, witness statements, delivery logs, or prior invitations to show that you were legally on the property. This is key in overcoming any trespassing defense the dog owner may try to raise.
Can I File A Claim If I Was Working At The Property?
Yes. Contractors, maintenance workers, landscapers, and similar professionals are considered lawfully present if they are performing agreed-upon work. If bitten during the course of that work, you may have a valid claim for damages.
What If I’m Partially At Fault For The Bite?
Even if you share some fault, you may still recover damages under Michigan’s comparative fault system. However, your compensation could be reduced based on your share of responsibility. We work to minimize any claims of fault made against you.
Is There A Time Limit To File A Dog Bite Lawsuit In Michigan?
Yes. Michigan law requires most personal injury claims, including dog bites, to be filed within three years from the date of the injury under MCL 600.5805. It’s best to act quickly so evidence is preserved and deadlines are met.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire Your Firm?
At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we win your case. The consultation is free, and we only get paid when you receive a settlement or verdict in your favor.
Call Ravid & Associates, P.C. After A Dog Bite On Private Property
If you or a loved one was injured by a dog while on someone else’s property, don’t assume you’re out of options. At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we fight for the rights of injury victims across Detroit and throughout the state of Michigan. We will review your case for free and explain your legal options.
If your loved one was injured in a dog attack, call our Detroit dog attack lawyersat Ravid & Associates, P.C. by calling (248) 948-9696 to receive your free consultation.
