Dog attacks on private property can happen in an instant often in places you least expect, like a friend’s backyard, a neighbor’s driveway, or even your own relative’s home. If you were lawfully on the property when the attack occurred, you may be entitled to compensation under Michigan law. These cases often involve sensitive situations, but you shouldn’t have to bear the physical, emotional, and financial burden of a dog bite alone. Understanding your rights is the first step toward holding the responsible party accountable and recovering the damages you deserve.
Understanding Dog Attacks on Private Property
Not all dog bites happen in public parks or apartment complexes. In fact, many attacks occur on private property often when the victim is visiting a friend, neighbor, or family member. These situations can be especially difficult because they involve people you know personally, but that doesn’t change your legal rights. Under Michigan’s dog bite statute, the location of the attack doesn’t excuse the dog owner from responsibility. If you were lawfully on the property, such as a guest, delivery driver, or utility worker, the dog’s owner is still strictly liable for any unprovoked attack. Dog attacks on private property often occur in situations like:
- A visitor being bitten in a homeowner’s yard, garage, or driveway
- A child playing in a neighbor’s backyard when a dog gets loose
- A contractor or repair person attacked while working on the premises
- A friend or family member bitten while visiting inside the home
- A delivery driver injured after approaching the front door or porch
In some cases, the property owner may also be liable under general negligence especially if they failed to restrain the dog, ignored warning signs, or didn’t inform visitors about known aggression.
Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite on Private Property?
Liability for a dog bite on private property usually starts with the dog’s owner but it doesn’t always end there. Michigan follows a strict liability rule, which means a dog owner is automatically responsible for an unprovoked bite, even if the dog had never shown signs of aggression before. However, in some cases, the property owner or another party may also be held accountable under negligence laws. The table below outlines the different parties who may be responsible for a dog bite on private property and when each might be liable.
| 🧑⚖️ Responsible party | 📋 When they may be liable |
|---|---|
| 🐶 Dog owner | Automatically liable under Michigan law if the bite was unprovoked |
| 🏠 Property owner | May be liable if they allowed a dangerous dog on the premises or failed to warn guests |
| 🔧 Contractor or caregiver | Could share liability if they were in control of the dog at the time of the attack |
| 🧍 Tenant (if renting) | Responsible if they own or care for the dog, even if not the property owner |
Each case depends on the specific facts including who owned or controlled the dog, whether the victim was lawfully on the property, and whether the property owner had any knowledge of the dog’s aggressive behavior.
Where Do Private Property Dog Attacks Commonly Happen?
Dog attacks on private property don’t just happen inside the home they often occur in areas surrounding the property where guests, workers, or neighbors are likely to be present. These locations can be especially dangerous when dogs are left off-leash, unsecured, or not properly supervised. The table below highlights some of the most common places where dog bites happen on private property and the typical scenarios involved.
| 📍 Location | 🐾 Example scenario |
|---|---|
| 🏡 Front yard | A dog runs out from the porch and bites a delivery driver |
| 🚪 Front porch | A visitor is bitten while knocking on the door |
| 🌳 Backyard | A child is attacked while playing near an unrestrained dog |
| 🚗 Driveway | A dog lunges at someone getting out of their car |
| 🛋️ Inside the home | A guest is bitten while visiting a friend or relative |
| 🧱 Side gate or fence | A dog escapes through a damaged fence and bites someone passing by |
| 🐴 Barns/outbuildings | A worker is attacked while providing a service on rural private land |
No matter where the bite occurred, the key legal question is whether the victim was lawfully on the property and whether the dog owner or property owner took reasonable steps to prevent the attack.
Can You Sue a Friend, Neighbor, or Relative?
Being bitten by a dog on private property is difficult enough but when the dog belongs to someone you know, the situation can feel even more complicated. Many victims hesitate to pursue legal action because they don’t want to damage personal relationships. But it’s important to understand that in most cases, you’re not suing your friend or relative directly — you’re filing a claim against their homeowner’s insurance. Homeowner’s insurance typically covers injuries caused by dog bites, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Emotional trauma
These claims are routine for insurers, and most cases settle without going to court. You deserve to have your medical bills paid and your future protected even if the dog owner is someone you care about. An experienced attorney can help handle the legal process discreetly and respectfully, allowing you to focus on healing without added conflict.
What If You Were Invited vs. Trespassing?
Under Michigan law, your legal right to compensation after a dog bite often depends on why you were on the property. Michigan’s strict liability dog bite statute only applies if the victim was lawfully present meaning you were invited, had permission, or were there for a legitimate reason like delivering mail or providing a service. If you were trespassing, your ability to recover damages may be limited but it’s not always black and white. The table below breaks down how your legal rights change based on your status at the time of the attack.
| 🚶 Visitor type | ⚖️ Legal status and compensation rights |
|---|---|
| 🧑🤝🧑 Invitee | Lawfully on the property for mutual benefit (e.g., guest, contractor) — fully protected under Michigan law |
| 🚪 Licensee | Social guest or someone entering with permission — eligible to file a claim |
| 🚫 Trespasser | No legal right to be on the property — limited rights unless the dog was known to be vicious or intentionally provoked |
Even if you weren’t formally invited, you may still be legally protected. If you were on the property for a legitimate reason, like reading a meter or dropping off a package, you may still qualify as a lawful entrant under Michigan law.
Steps to Take After a Dog Bite on Private Property
If you’ve been bitten by a dog while on someone else’s property, taking the right steps immediately afterward can make a big difference in your recovery and in your ability to pursue a claim. Even if the attack happened at a friend’s or relative’s home, it’s important to protect yourself legally and medically. Here’s what you should do after a dog bite on private property:
- Get medical attention right away, even if the wound seems minor
- Document the scene, including photos of your injuries, the dog, and where the bite occurred
- Ask for the dog owner’s name and homeowner’s insurance information
- Get contact info for any witnesses who saw the attack or can describe the dog’s behavior
- Report the bite to local animal control or your health department
- Keep copies of all medical records, bills, and communications related to the attack
- Talk to a dog bite attorney before dealing with insurance adjusters
Prompt action helps establish liability and creates a strong paper trail in case the property owner or insurer disputes your claim.
Compensation Available After a Private Property Dog Attack
Dog bite injuries can lead to more than just physical pain, they can cause long-term trauma, scarring, and financial stress. If you were bitten while lawfully on private property in Michigan, you may be entitled to compensation for a range of damages. Compensation may include:
- Medical expenses — ER visits, surgery, infection treatment, physical therapy, and ongoing care
- Lost wages — if your injuries forced you to miss work or reduced your ability to earn a living
- Pain and suffering — for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life
- Scarring and disfigurement — particularly when bites occur on visible areas like the face, arms, or legs
- Mental health treatment — for anxiety, PTSD, or fear of dogs following the attack
- Out-of-pocket costs — such as medication, travel for appointments, or wound care supplies
If a child was bitten, the long-term psychological and physical effects can be especially severe and compensation may account for future care needs and emotional trauma.
How a Lawyer Can Help With Private Property Dog Bite Claims
When a dog bite happens on private property, determining who’s legally responsible can get complicated especially if the dog’s owner is also the homeowner or a close acquaintance. A Michigan dog bite injury attorney can help you navigate these sensitive situations, deal with insurance companies, and pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to under Michigan law. The table below outlines how a lawyer can support you throughout the legal process. Learn how bites on private property fit into the larger picture of dog attack liability in our locations and situations guide.
| 👨⚖️ Legal service | 🔧 What this includes |
|---|---|
| 📋 Case investigation | Gathering evidence, witness statements, and property details |
| 🏠 Identifying liability | Determining if the dog owner, property owner, or both can be held responsible |
| 📝 Reviewing insurance | Finding out if homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers your injuries |
| 💵 Calculating compensation | Evaluating current and future damages, including pain and suffering |
| 📞 Communicating with insurers | Handling all phone calls, paperwork, and negotiations with insurance adjusters |
| ⚖️ Filing a legal claim | Taking formal action if a fair settlement offer is not made |
At The Clark Law Office, we personally handle every case…. no associates, no handoffs, and no pressure. We’re here to guide you through every step and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites on Private Property
Can I sue a homeowner if their dog bites me?
Yes. Under Michigan’s strict liability law, a dog owner is responsible for unprovoked bites — even if it’s their first incident. If the dog’s owner is also the homeowner, you can typically file a claim through their insurance.
What if I was bitten by a dog while visiting a friend’s house?
You may still be entitled to compensation. Most of these claims are handled by homeowner’s insurance, not paid out-of-pocket by the dog owner. A lawyer can help file a respectful claim without damaging the relationship.
Does it matter if I was on the property without permission?
Yes. Michigan law only protects victims who were lawfully on the property. Trespassers generally have limited rights unless the dog was known to be dangerous or the property owner acted negligently.
Will homeowner’s insurance cover a dog bite claim?
Most homeowner’s insurance policies do cover dog bite injuries. However, some policies exclude specific breeds or may deny coverage if the dog had a known history of aggression.
Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a private property dog bite case?
Absolutely. These cases can be legally and emotionally complex. A lawyer can help gather evidence, handle insurance negotiations, and maximize your compensation — while protecting your rights throughout the process.
Bitten on Private Property? Get Legal Help Today.
If you were attacked by a dog while visiting someone’s home or private land, you may be entitled to compensation even if the dog belongs to someone you know. At The Clark Law Office, we understand how sensitive these cases can be. We’ll handle your claim personally, with compassion and experience. Call us today for a free consultation or fill out our online form to speak directly with attorney Matthew R. Clark. There’s no fee unless we win.