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Protecting the Rights of Dog Bite Victims Across the Upper Peninsula
A dog bite can leave both physical scars and emotional trauma. Whether it happened while visiting a friend, walking downtown, or simply passing by someone’s yard — Michigan law gives victims the right to seek compensation.
At Andriacchi Law, we help injured clients throughout Marquette and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula recover for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more after a dog bite or animal attack.
Michigan Law Favors Dog Bite Victims
In Michigan, the law is clear:
If a dog bites someone without provocation, the dog’s owner is strictly liable — even if the dog never showed aggression before.
Unlike some states, Michigan does not require proof that the dog had a history of viciousness.
That means you may be entitled to compensation if:
- The dog bite occurred on public property
- You were lawfully on private property (e.g., visiting someone’s home)
- You did not provoke the dog
In addition, Michigan also has a common law claim for dog bites as well, which can also help you establish liability for a dog attack. Sometimes, too, the city, township, etc. might have a specific ordinance that helps you hold owners whose dogs attack people accountable.
Common Injuries in Dog Bite Cases
Dog bites aren’t just minor injuries — they can be serious, disfiguring, and long-lasting. These injuries can include:
- Puncture wounds and deep lacerations
- Infections like MRSA or sepsis
- Nerve damage
- Facial injuries and scarring
- Psychological trauma, PTSD, and fear of animals
- Permanent disfigurement
- Wrongful death (in extreme cases)
Even injuries that heal physically can leave lasting emotional scars that impact your life for years to come.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Dog Bite?
Depending on the situation, you may be entitled to recover:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, plastic surgery, rehab)
- Future medical care (including scar revision procedures)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and psychological therapy costs
- Disfigurement damages
We work with medical experts, therapists, and financial specialists to fully value your case.
Why Hire Andriacchi Law After a Dog Bite?
✅ Clear communication — no confusion about your rights
✅ Experienced negotiation with insurance companies
✅ Aggressive litigation if needed to maximize compensation
✅ No fees unless we win
We are based in Marquette and Ishpeming — and proudly represent dog bite victims throughout the Upper Peninsula
When you hire us, you get a team that fights for your healing, your dignity, and your financial future.
Meet Your Attorney: Dominic F. Andriacchi Jr.
Attorney Dominic Jr. is dedicated to securing justice for injury victims across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. His credentials include:
- JD and MBA
- Graduate of the prestigious Trial Lawyers College
- Executive Board Member – Michigan Association for Justice
- Member – American Association for Justice (AAJ)
- Named one of Michigan’s Top 25 Up & Coming Lawyers
He brings compassion, strategy, and courtroom strength to every case he handles.
Notable Case Results: Dog Bite & Animal Attack Victories
Homeowner Denies Liability — But Truth Comes Out at Deposition
In one case, our client was attacked by a dog that had previously bitten multiple people. The homeowner initially denied all responsibility, claiming she was not present at the time of the incident.
However, during our cross-examination of one of the homeowner’s children, a critical truth emerged: the homeowner was, in fact, home during the attack. This revelation shifted the entire dynamic of the case.
Result:
Following mediation, the homeowner’s insurance company agreed to a confidential financial settlement that fairly compensated our client for her injuries and suffering.
Negligent Dog Owner Causes Injury to Client and Her Dog
In another case, our client was out walking her own dog when a neighbor’s dog — known for prior attacks — escaped through a broken, unrepaired fence.
The aggressive dog crossed the street, mauled our client’s dog, and bit our client in the process. The negligent homeowner had made no effort to secure the property despite obvious prior issues.
Result:
Our firm was able to negotiate a confidential pre-suit settlement that covered our client’s medical expenses, veterinary bills, and emotional distress — without the need for lengthy litigation.
Other Personal Injury Cases We Handle
- Bicycle Accidents
- Burn Injuries
- Car Accidents
- Dog Bite Injuries
- Motorcycle Accidents
- No-Fault Insurance Claims
- Pedestrian Accidents
- Premises Liability / Slip and Fall
- Product Liability
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Truck Accidents
Dog Bite & Animal Attack FAQ
Q: What if the bite happened on private property?
A: You still have rights. Michigan law protects guests, postal workers, delivery drivers, and others legally on private property.
Q: What if it was a friend’s or family member’s dog?
A: Most claims are paid through homeowners’ insurance — not out of the dog owner’s pocket.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: In Michigan, you typically have 3 years — but you should act fast to preserve evidence.
Contact a Marquette Dog Bite Lawyer Today
If you or your child has been bitten by a dog, don’t suffer in silence. Let us help you secure the care, recovery, and compensation you deserve.
Take the First Step Toward Justice