Dog Bites

Dog Bites

Angry dog - Law services in Sterling Heights
In Michigan, there is a statute that says that an owner of a dog who bites a person without provocation while on public property or lawfully on private property is liable for damages suffered by the individual who was bitten regardless whether the dog was previously vicious.

A landlord may be liable for an attack by a dog owned by his or her tenant if the landlord was aware of the vicious nature of the dog or if the landlord has rules against keeping pets and knowingly allows the dog to be kept by the tenant in violation of the rules.

An owner also can be liable under state statute and many city ordinances which require dogs to be leashed for an attack by his or her dog if the owner allows a dog to run free. The attack would have been avoided if the dog had been leashed.

Injuries from dog bites can be serious. Permanent disfigurement in particular of the face can have lifelong emotional consequences and may require multiple surgeries to improve scarring. Permanent nerve damage can also be caused. If a dog does not have its shots, the victim could get rabies.

Victims of attacks are often left with a permanent fear of dogs, have nightmares about being attacked, and are reluctant to go anywhere a dog might be.

It is estimated that dogs bite more than 4.5 million people in a year in America. Of them, close to one million seek medical attention. If a dog has bitten you or a loved one, you or the loved one are entitled to compensation for pain, suffering, scarring and medical expenses. Usually, the dog owner is covered for these types of claims through homeowners or renters’ insurance, and the insurance company will be responsible for paying the claim. Call Sam Serra at Serra & Isopi, P.C., for a free consultation today. Remember there is no attorney fee unless we collect money for you.

Slip & Fall

Man on Crutches - Law services in Sterling Heights, MI
Unfortunately, slip and fall accidents are too common. Each year, thousands of Michigan residents are seriously injured from a fall as a result of someone's negligence. A slip and fall liability case can be filed by the victim who is injured due to the negligence or carelessness of a third party, whether the owner of the business or landlord.

Here are just a few examples of dangerous conditions that can result in injury:

  • Puddles of water
  • Uncleared snow or ice
  • Defective floors/tiling
  • Improperly secured mats
  • Stairs in violation of building codes
  • Inadequate lighting

If you or a loved one suffered as a result of these or other instances of negligence, let Sam Serra determine what your options are. Call Sam today for a free consultation.
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