Bitten in Michigan? What to Do After a Dog Bite

July 10, 2025

Bitten in Michigan? What to Do After a Dog Bite

A dog bite can be a traumatic and life-altering experience, especially when the injuries are severe. Beyond the initial pain and emotional distress, victims often face medical bills, lost wages, and the long-term risk of infection or scarring. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Michigan, it’s essential to act quickly—not just for your health, but to preserve your legal rights.


At Gergely Law Offices, P.C., we’ve helped countless injury victims in Kalamazoo and across Michigan recover compensation after a serious animal attack. Here are five critical steps to take immediately following a dog bite incident.


1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if the bite appears minor, you should seek medical care right away. Dog bites can lead to infections, nerve damage, or exposure to diseases like rabies. Medical documentation also creates a crucial record of your injuries if you decide to pursue a claim.


2. Identify the Dog and Its Owner

If possible, obtain the name and contact information of the dog’s owner and determine whether the dog is current on its vaccinations. This information will be essential for both your medical provider and your legal case. If the owner is uncooperative or unknown, local animal control may assist.


3. File a Report with Animal Control

Michigan law requires reporting dog bites. File a complaint with your local animal control agency or law enforcement. An official report not only protects others but also becomes important evidence in any future legal action.


4. Document Everything

Take photographs of your injuries, the location where the attack occurred, the dog if possible, and anything else that may support your case. Keep a detailed journal of your recovery, medical treatments, pain levels, and how the injury has affected your daily life.


5. Contact an Experienced Dog Bite Attorney

Michigan has strict liability laws when it comes to dog bites. That means the owner may be held legally responsible—even if the dog had never shown aggression before. However, navigating these laws and dealing with insurance companies requires legal skill. Gergely Law Offices, P.C. can help you pursue the maximum compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.



Don’t Wait—Your Case Has a Time Limit

Michigan law sets a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, including dog bites. If you delay, you could lose the right to compensation. Reach out to Gergely Law Offices, P.C. today to schedule your free consultation. We are here to protect your rights and hold negligent dog owners accountable.

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