Home » Practice Areas » Syracuse Dog Bite Lawyers » Great Dane Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

Great Dane Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

If you or a family member have been injured by a Great Dane dog bite in New York, you may have a case to recover compensation. At the Porter Law Group, we understand the physical and emotional trauma caused by dog bites, particularly from large breeds like Great Danes whose massive size can cause devastating injuries even when the dog has no history of aggression.

Get a Free Dog Bite Case Review

CONTACT US
View Client Testimonials

Our Recent Case Results

$17,800,000

Settlement

$13,500,000

Jury Verdict

$8,300,000

Settlement

$8,250,000

Settlement

Our experienced lawyers are committed to holding the dog's owner accountable for your injuries and securing compensation for your pain and suffering, disfigurement, emotional distress, and other economic losses. Following the landmark 2025 Flanders v. Goodfellow decision, New York victims can now pursue negligence claims even when a dog has no prior bite history, expanding your legal options for recovery.

What You Can Recover:

  • All medical expenses, including emergency care, surgery, and reconstructive procedures
  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement
  • Emotional distress and PTSD
  • Future medical care and ongoing treatment

What to Do Next:

  1. Seek immediate medical attention and document all injuries with photographs
  2. Report the bite to authorities within 24 hours (required in NYC)
  3. Gather the dog owner's information and proof of rabies vaccination
  4. Preserve all evidence, including damaged clothing and witness statements
  5. Contact The Porter Law Group for a free consultation

Call us to discuss your case. We operate on a no-fee basis, you only pay if we win. Our approach ensures that our services are accessible to those who need them most, without the burden of upfront costs.

What to Do After a Dog Bite in New York

Immediate Steps (Minutes 0-30)

  • ☑ Control bleeding and clean the wound with soap and water
  • ☑ Photograph injuries before medical treatment
  • ☑ Seek emergency medical care for serious wounds, face/neck bites, or deep punctures
  • ☑ Ask dog owner for proof of rabies vaccination

Within 24 Hours

  • ☑ Report to NYC Health Department (if in NYC) via portal.311.nyc.gov
  • ☑ Report to county health department (outside NYC)
  • ☑ File police report and obtain case number
  • ☑ Contact animal control to document the incident
  • ☑ Gather witness names and contact information

Days 1-7

  • ☑ Take daily photos documenting healing or complications
  • ☑ Keep all medical records, bills, and prescriptions
  • ☑ Save damaged clothing and physical evidence
  • ☑ Start a pain and symptom journal
  • ☑ Contact The Porter Law Group for a free consultation (833-PORTER9)

History of the Great Dane

The Great Dane, often referred to as a "gentle giant," has a history that traces back to ancient civilizations, with early depictions found in Egyptian artifacts and Babylonian temples. The breed was refined in Germany, evolving from a fearless hunter to a noble companion of the aristocracy. Officially recognized in the late 19th century, the Great Dane has become a symbol of elegance and strength, known for its majestic appearance and gentle temperament, making it a beloved family pet today.

Characteristics of Great Dane

Size and Appearance: Great Danes are one of the largest dog breeds, known for their imposing stature and elegant appearance. Adult male Great Danes typically stand 30-34 inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh 140-175 pounds or more. Their massive size means that even playful or defensive behavior can cause serious injuries, particularly to children and elderly individuals.

Personality: Typically gentle and loving, they are often referred to as "gentle giants." Great Danes are known for their calm demeanor and affectionate nature with family members.

Training and Socialization: Proper training and socialization from a young age are crucial to prevent any aggressive tendencies. Due to their large size, even minor behavioral issues can escalate into dangerous situations if not properly addressed.

Health Considerations: They have specific health needs due to their size, including susceptibility to hip dysplasia and heart conditions. Their shorter lifespan (7-10 years) compared to smaller breeds means owners must be particularly attentive to health and behavioral changes.

Great Dane's Temperament

Great Danes are known for their calm and friendly temperament, making them excellent family pets. However, their behavior can vary based on individual personality, training, and socialization. Key points about their temperament include:

Gentle Nature: They are often loving and gentle with family members, earning their "gentle giant" reputation. Most Great Danes are patient, affectionate, and eager to please.

Early Socialization: Early socialization is crucial to ensure they are comfortable around people and other animals. Proper exposure to various environments, sounds, and experiences during puppyhood helps prevent fear-based aggression.

Protective Instincts: They can be protective of their family, which, if not properly managed, could lead to aggressive behavior in certain situations. While typically not aggressive by nature, their size and strength mean that even defensive reactions can cause serious harm.

Size-Related Challenges: Due to their imposing size, behaviors that might be manageable in smaller dogs, such as jumping or pulling on a leash, can become dangerous in a Great Dane. Owners must maintain consistent control and training throughout the dog's life.

Do Great Dane Dogs Have Aggression Problems?

While Great Danes are generally not known for being aggressive, like any dog breed, they can develop aggression problems due to various factors such as lack of training, poor socialization, abuse, or specific situations.

Factors Contributing to Aggression:

  • Inadequate socialization during critical developmental periods
  • Lack of consistent training and behavioral boundaries
  • Past abuse or neglect
  • Fear-based reactions to perceived threats
  • Territorial behavior without proper management
  • Pain or illness causing defensive responses
  • Improper breeding focusing on size over temperament

Even well-socialized Great Danes can react aggressively when frightened, protecting their family, or in pain. Due to their massive size and strength, any aggressive incident involving a Great Dane has the potential to cause catastrophic injuries.

Great Dane Bite and Attack Statistics

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur in the United States each year. More than 800,000 of these bites require medical attention due to their severity. Approximately 337,000 emergency department visits occur annually for dog bites, with serious cases requiring hospitalization and surgical intervention.

National Context:

  • New York ranks 4th nationally with 900 reported dog bite claims in 2023
  • The average cost per claim in New York reached $110,488 in 2024, the highest in the nation
  • Settlement values typically range from $5,000 for minor injuries to over $200,000 in serious cases involving children, permanent scarring, or emotional trauma

New York City Statistics: Between 2015 and 2023, New York City's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene documented 29,992 self-reported dog bite incidents, an average of 3,332 bites per year. Dog bite injury rates increased 14% between the pre-COVID year of 2018 and post-COVID year of 2023.

Great Dane-Specific Statistics: Great Danes have been involved in 58 documented attacks resulting in bodily harm in the United States, with 4 fatalities recorded. In 2021, U.S. statistics specifically identified 37 attacks and 3 fatalities involving Great Danes. While not listed on Potentially Dangerous Dogs (PDD) lists and widely recognized as calm breeds, their massive size means attacks can result in serious injuries despite their generally gentle temperament.

Bite Force and Injury Potential: Great Danes possess an estimated bite force of approximately 240 PSI (pounds per square inch), based on their head size and jaw muscle structure. While this is comparable to German Shepherds and slightly higher than the average dog, it is substantially less than mastiff breeds. However, the combination of size (140-175+ pounds), weight, and bite force means Great Dane attacks can cause significant trauma, particularly to children and vulnerable adults.

Injury Patterns: Due to their height (30-34 inches at the shoulder), Great Danes are more likely to inflict injuries to the upper body, head, and face when attacking smaller individuals. Their bite, while not the strongest pound-for-pound, can cause deep puncture wounds and crushing injuries when the dog's full jaw pressure is applied. The sheer weight and momentum of a Great Dane can knock victims to the ground, resulting in secondary injuries such as fractures, head trauma, and joint damage.

What are the Different Types of Dog Bites?

Dog bite injuries from Great Danes can vary significantly in severity due to the breed's size and bite force. Understanding the types of injuries helps victims and medical professionals assess the seriousness of the attack and determine appropriate treatment.

Nips and Scratches: Minor injuries that may not break the skin but can still transmit bacteria. Even seemingly minor scratches from a dog's teeth or claws qualify as legally compensable injuries under New York law, particularly if the dog is a carrier of rabies or another zoonotic disease.

Puncture Wounds: The most common dog bite injury (47% of cases), puncture wounds occur when teeth penetrate deeply into the skin. Great Danes with their 240 PSI bite force can drive teeth deep into flesh, creating wounds that risk serious infection despite small surface appearance. These wounds may look minor but can damage tissue, muscles, and nerves below the surface.

Lacerations: Accounting for 36% of dog bite injuries, lacerations are tears in the skin that can be deep enough to damage muscles, blood vessels, and nerves. Great Danes often cause extensive lacerations when they shake their heads while biting, creating tearing injuries beyond initial puncture sites.

Crush Injuries: These occur when a dog bites and doesn't let go, potentially damaging muscles, bones, and nerves. Dog bites from powerful breeds like Great Danes involve compression of tissues, blood vessels, and bones, leading to significant pain, swelling, tissue damage, and impaired function. The powerful force and pressure can lead to nerve damage, internal bleeding, and bone fractures.

Avulsion Injuries: Occur when skin or body parts are partially or completely torn away, such as ears or parts of the face. These represent 3-4% of dog bite injuries and frequently require reconstructive surgery. When a Great Dane shakes its head during an attack, the combination of bite force and body weight can cause severe avulsion injuries.

Knockdown Injuries: Due to their massive size and weight, Great Danes can knock victims to the ground even without biting, causing broken bones, head trauma, sprains, and joint damage. Under New York law, dog owners can be held liable for knockdown injuries if the owner lost control due to negligence or if the dog had a known propensity to knock people down.

Rabies and Other Infections: Bites can transmit diseases, making medical attention crucial. Infection rates for dog bites range from 5-25%, with higher rates in deep wounds, contaminated wounds, and those involving marked tissue destruction. If left untreated, infections can lead to cellulitis, sepsis, osteomyelitis, tetanus, and rabies.

How Can Great Dane Bites Be Prevented?

Preventing Great Dane bites requires responsible ownership, proper training, and awareness of situations that can trigger aggressive behavior. Due to their massive size, prevention is critical, as even a single incident can cause catastrophic injuries.

For Dog Owners:

Early Socialization and Training: Begin socialization during puppyhood (8-16 weeks) by exposing the Great Dane to various people, animals, environments, and situations in a positive, controlled manner. Enroll in professional obedience training to establish clear behavioral boundaries and ensure the dog responds reliably to commands.

Proper Restraint and Control: Always use a sturdy leash and properly fitted collar or harness when in public spaces. In New York City, dogs must be restrained by a leash no longer than six feet. Maintain secure fencing on private property to prevent the dog from escaping and encountering people or animals unexpectedly.

Supervision Around Children and Vulnerable Individuals: Never leave a Great Dane unsupervised with young children, even if the dog has a gentle temperament. The dog's size means that even playful behavior can accidentally knock down or injure small children. Teach children how to interact safely with dogs, including not approaching dogs while eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.

Health Care and Behavioral Monitoring: Maintain regular veterinary care, as pain or illness can trigger aggressive behavior. Monitor for signs of behavioral changes, such as increased growling, snapping, or territorial behavior, and consult with a professional dog behaviorist or trainer if aggression emerges.

Compliance with Local Laws: Follow all local leash laws, licensing requirements, and dangerous dog regulations. Report any biting incidents immediately to authorities as required by law.

For the Public:

Approaching Unknown Dogs: Never approach an unfamiliar Great Dane without the owner's permission. Ask the owner if the dog is friendly before attempting to pet or interact. Avoid sudden movements, loud noises, or direct eye contact that the dog may perceive as threatening.

Recognizing Warning Signs: Learn to recognize signs of aggression or discomfort in dogs, including growling, baring teeth, raised hackles, stiff body posture, direct staring, or backing away. If a dog displays these signs, calmly and slowly move away without running or making sudden movements.

Interacting Safely: When petting a friendly dog, approach from the side rather than head-on, allow the dog to sniff your hand first, and pet the dog on the chest or shoulders rather than reaching over its head. Never disturb a dog that is eating, sleeping, caring for puppies, or appears ill or injured.

Protecting Yourself During an Attack: If a Great Dane attacks, try to put an object between you and the dog (such as a backpack, jacket, or purse). If knocked down, curl into a ball with your hands covering your ears and neck, and remain as still as possible. Do not run, scream, or make eye contact, as these actions may escalate the attack.

What are the Dog Bite Laws in New York?

New York operates under a mixed liability system that has been significantly expanded following the 2025 Flanders v. Goodfellow decision. Victims now have multiple pathways to pursue compensation, even when a dog like a Great Dane has no prior history of aggression.

Three Legal Theories of Liability:

1. Strict Liability for Medical Costs Under the Dangerous Dog Statute: New York Agriculture & Markets Law § 123 imposes strict liability on the owner of a dog that has been officially declared "dangerous" by authorities, making the owner automatically responsible for all medical and veterinary costs resulting from a bite or attack, regardless of whether the owner took precautions. However, strict liability under this statute is limited to medical costs only. To recover additional damages such as pain and suffering, lost wages, or scarring, victims must prove negligence or the owner's knowledge of vicious propensities.

2. Strict Liability Based on Vicious Propensities (The One-Bite Rule): Under New York's traditional one-bite rule, a dog owner can be held strictly liable for all damages if the victim proves that the dog had "vicious propensities" and that the owner knew or should have known about those propensities. Contrary to popular belief, the one-bite rule does not mean every dog literally gets one free bite. Evidence of vicious propensities can include prior bites, growling, snapping, lunging at people, chasing, jumping aggressively, or excessive threatening behavior.

3. Negligence Claims (NEW as of April 2025): The landmark Flanders v. Goodfellow decision allows victims to pursue ordinary negligence claims against dog owners, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. Under this standard, the critical question is whether the owner failed to use reasonable care to prevent the bite. Courts examine whether the dog owner acted reasonably by considering factors such as proper leashing and restraint, adequate fencing, compliance with local leash laws, appropriate supervision around children and visitors, and reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm.

This negligence pathway is particularly important for Great Dane attacks, as even gentle dogs can cause serious injuries when owners fail to maintain proper control due to the breed's massive size and strength.

Reporting Requirements:

Victims of dog bites should report the incident to local authorities immediately. In New York City, all animal bites must be reported within 24 hours under NYC Health Code § 11.03. Outside NYC, victims should report to their county health department and local animal control. Timely reporting triggers rabies observation requirements and creates official documentation crucial for legal claims.

Compensation for Great Dane Bite Injuries

Victims of Great Dane attacks in New York may be entitled to substantial compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial harm they suffer. The massive size and strength of Great Danes means that even a single attack can result in catastrophic injuries requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term care.

Types of Damages Recoverable:

Economic Damages:

  • Emergency medical care: Emergency room visits ($1,500-$5,000), hospitalization for severe infection ($10,000-$50,000), basic suturing and wound care ($500-$2,000)
  • Surgical procedures: Wound debridement, tendon repair, nerve repair, and bone reconstruction ($5,000-$100,000+)
  • Reconstructive surgery: Facial reconstruction ($15,000-$100,000+ depending on complexity), scar revision procedures ($2,000-$15,000 per treatment), skin grafts and flap reconstruction, multiple staged procedures over several years
  • Ongoing medical treatment: Physical therapy (3-12 months: $3,000-$15,000), occupational therapy for lost function, psychological counseling for PTSD and trauma, infection treatment including antibiotics and wound care
  • Lost wages and earning capacity: Time missed from work during recovery, reduced earning capacity if injuries cause permanent limitations, loss of future employment opportunities
  • Out-of-pocket expenses: Medications, travel to medical appointments, home care assistance, damaged personal property

Non-Economic Damages:

  • Pain and suffering: Physical pain from the attack and ongoing discomfort during recovery, chronic pain from nerve damage or scarring
  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement: Visible scars, particularly on the face and neck, that affect self-esteem and social interactions. Compensation for disfigurement varies based on severity, location, and overall impact on quality of life
  • Emotional distress and PTSD: Anxiety, depression, nightmares, flashbacks, fear of dogs, loss of enjoyment of life, social withdrawal
  • Loss of consortium: Impact on family relationships and inability to participate in activities previously enjoyed

Settlement Values in New York:

New York leads the nation with an average dog bite claim cost of $110,488 in 2024. Settlement values typically range from $5,000 for minor injuries to over $200,000 in serious cases involving children, permanent scarring, or emotional trauma.

Notable settlements involving large breeds demonstrate the potential compensation available:

  • $305,000 settlement for mastiff facial bite attack with $23,000 in medical charges
  • $200,000 settlement for child with deep facial lacerations requiring reconstructive surgery
  • $250,000 settlement for jogger attacked with nerve damage and PTSD

It is worth noting, however, that settlement values are never fixed. They can vary depending on the case. Having a good personal injury lawyer will help you ensure that you get the best possible outcome.

Factors Affecting Compensation:

The value of a Great Dane bite case depends on several factors:

  • Severity of injuries: More severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment result in higher compensation
  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement: Facial scars result in significantly higher awards due to their visibility and impact on self-esteem
  • Age of victim: Children often receive higher compensation due to longer life expectancy with permanent injuries and potential for ongoing psychological trauma
  • Impact on quality of life: Loss of ability to work, participate in activities, or maintain relationships
  • Strength of evidence: Clear documentation of the attack, injuries, and owner negligence or knowledge of dangerous propensities
  • Insurance coverage: Available homeowner's or renter's insurance policy limits
Envelope Icon

Looking for Medical Compensation after a Dog Attack?

Let us help. Our clients don't have to pay anything unless we win.

Contact Us

Medical Care for Great Dane Dog Bite Injuries

Great Dane bites require immediate and comprehensive medical attention due to the breed's powerful bite force, massive size, and potential for deep tissue damage. Proper medical treatment is essential not only for physical healing but also for documenting injuries to support legal claims.

Emergency Medical Treatment:

Immediate Wound Care: If bitten by a Great Dane, immediately wash the wound with soap and running water for several minutes to reduce infection risk. Control bleeding with direct pressure using clean cloth or bandages. Seek emergency medical care promptly, particularly for deep punctures, bites to the face, neck, or hands, uncontrolled bleeding, wounds involving children or elderly victims, or any bite where the dog's rabies vaccination status is unknown.

Emergency Room Evaluation: Emergency physicians will thoroughly assess the wound depth and extent, examine for damage to underlying structures (tendons, nerves, blood vessels, bones), clean and debride the wound to remove contaminated tissue, determine whether stitches or surgical closure is appropriate, administer tetanus booster if needed, prescribe prophylactic antibiotics to prevent infection, and evaluate the need for rabies post-exposure prophylaxis based on the dog's vaccination status and behavior.

Hospitalization Requirements: Approximately 22.5% of pediatric facial dog bite patients require inpatient treatment, with average length of stay around 3 days. Hospitalization may be necessary for severe lacerations requiring complex surgical repair, crushing injuries with bone fractures or nerve damage, signs of serious infection (cellulitis, sepsis), wounds requiring multiple surgical procedures, or patients with compromised immune systems at high risk for complications.

Surgical Intervention:

Primary Wound Repair: Studies show that 75.5% of facial dog bite patients undergo surgical intervention in the operating room for proper wound repair. Surgical procedures may include thorough wound irrigation and debridement, primary closure with sutures for clean wounds, delayed primary closure for contaminated wounds, tendon and nerve repairs for deep structural damage, and bone stabilization with plates and screws for fractures.

Reconstructive Surgery: Many Great Dane bite victims require reconstructive surgery to address permanent scarring and disfigurement. In 2023, approximately 19,201 people underwent reconstructive surgery for dog bite injuries in the United States. About 27,000 of the 4.5 million people bitten by dogs every year need reconstructive surgery.

Reconstructive procedures may include:

  • Scar revision surgery to improve appearance and function
  • Skin grafts (full thickness or split thickness) for large defects
  • Local advancement flaps for tissue replacement
  • Facial reconstruction for injuries to lips, cheeks, nose, and eyelids
  • Multiple staged procedures over several years as wounds heal and scar tissue matures

Studies show that 60-67% of dog bite patients develop unfavorable scarring after surgical repair. The presence of infection and tissue loss significantly increases the risk of poor scarring outcomes. Children may require multiple future surgeries as facial scars affect growing tissue.

Infection Management:

Dog bite infections represent a serious medical concern, with infection rates ranging from 5-25% overall, higher for deep wounds and those involving hands (18-36%) or marked tissue destruction.

Common Bacterial Pathogens: On average, a dog bite wound contains 2-5 different species of bacteria. Pasteurella multocida is present in over 50% of dog bites and is the most likely pathogen in infected wounds presenting within 12 hours. Other common pathogens include Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Capnocytophaga, and anaerobic bacteria.

Signs of Infection: Victims should watch for increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth around the wound, pus or drainage, fever or chills, red streaks extending from the bite, and swollen lymph nodes. Medical attention should be sought immediately if any signs of infection develop.

Serious Complications: If left untreated, dog bite infections can lead to cellulitis (painful skin infection), sepsis (potentially life-threatening blood infection), osteomyelitis (serious bone infection), tetanus (nerve infection), and rabies (deadly virus transmitted through infected saliva).

Rabies Risk Assessment:

New York requires immediate reporting of dog bites to initiate the mandatory 10-day rabies observation period. If the Great Dane's owner can provide proof of current rabies vaccination and the dog remains healthy during the observation period, the victim typically does not need rabies post-exposure prophylaxis. However, if the dog's vaccination status is unknown, the dog cannot be located for observation, or the dog shows signs of rabies, victims must begin rabies treatment immediately, as rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.

Ongoing Medical Care:

Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor wound healing, watch for signs of infection or complications, remove sutures or staples, assess nerve and tendon function, and plan for any necessary reconstructive procedures.

Physical and Occupational Therapy: Victims with hand, arm, or leg injuries may require physical therapy to restore range of motion, strength, and function. Occupational therapy helps patients relearn daily activities and adapt to any permanent limitations.

Psychological Treatment: Many dog bite victims, especially children, develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other anxiety disorders. Studies show PTSD is one of the most frequently reported psychological consequences in child dog bite victims. Counseling, trauma-focused therapy, and psychiatric care may be crucial for full recovery.

Medical Documentation:

Comprehensive medical records are essential for supporting legal claims. Victims should obtain complete files from all healthcare providers, including emergency room records, physician notes describing wounds in detail, surgical reports and operative notes, all itemized bills and receipts, photographs taken by medical staff, therapy notes from physical or occupational therapy, and psychological treatment records for PTSD or anxiety.

Taking high-quality photographs of injuries immediately after the attack and at regular intervals during healing provides powerful visual evidence of the severity and long-term impact of the attack.

FAQ

How much is a dog bite lawsuit worth?

The value of a dog bite lawsuit in New York varies significantly based on the severity of injuries, extent of medical treatment required, and impact on the victim's life. New York leads the nation with an average dog bite claim cost of $110,488 in 2024, the highest in the United States.

Settlement values typically range from:

  • $5,000-$20,000: Minor injuries with minimal scarring, brief medical treatment, and full recovery
  • $20,000-$50,000: Moderate injuries requiring stitches, some scarring, infection treatment, and several weeks of recovery
  • $50,000-$100,000: Serious injuries involving facial lacerations, nerve damage, or significant scarring requiring reconstructive surgery
  • $100,000-$200,000+: Severe injuries with permanent disfigurement, multiple surgeries, psychological trauma, or long-term disability

Cases involving children with visible facial scarring or emotional trauma typically settle higher due to the lifelong impact of the injuries. Great Dane attacks often result in higher settlements because the dog's massive size (140-175+ pounds) and 240 PSI bite force can cause catastrophic injuries, even from a single incident.

Factors that increase settlement value include:

  • Permanent scarring and disfigurement, particularly on the face and neck
  • Multiple surgical procedures or reconstructive surgery requirements
  • Long-term or permanent disability affecting work capacity
  • Documented psychological trauma such as PTSD
  • Clear evidence of owner negligence or knowledge of dangerous propensities
  • Significant economic losses including medical bills and lost wages

Factors that decrease settlement value include:

  • Minor injuries with minimal medical treatment
  • Victim provoked the dog or was trespassing
  • Shared fault under New York's comparative negligence rules
  • Limited or no permanent scarring
  • Insufficient documentation of injuries and damages

Each case is unique, and the specific facts, evidence, and circumstances significantly affect the final settlement or verdict amount. Consulting with an experienced New York dog bite attorney at the Porter Law Group can provide a more accurate assessment of your case's potential value based on your specific injuries and situation.

How much does a dog bite lawyer cost?

At The Porter Law Group, we handle dog bite cases on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no upfront costs or hourly fees for our legal representation. You only pay attorney's fees if we successfully recover compensation for you through a settlement or jury verdict.

How Contingency Fees Work:

No Upfront Costs: You pay nothing when you initially retain The Porter Law Group. We cover all costs of investigating your case, gathering evidence, obtaining medical records, hiring expert witnesses, and preparing for trial.

Percentage of Recovery: Our attorney's fee is calculated as a percentage of the final settlement or verdict amount, typically ranging from 33% to 40% depending on the complexity of the case and whether it settles before trial or proceeds through litigation.

No Recovery, No Fee: If we do not win your case and recover compensation on your behalf, you owe us no attorney's fees. This arrangement ensures that high-quality legal representation is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.

Case Expenses: While there are no attorney's fees unless we win, some cases involve expenses such as court filing fees, expert witness fees, medical record costs, and investigation expenses. These costs are typically advanced by the law firm and reimbursed from the settlement or verdict. Some firms deduct costs before calculating the attorney's fee, while others deduct costs after. The Porter Law Group will clearly explain our fee structure and how costs are handled during your free consultation.

Benefits of Contingency Fee Arrangements:

This no-risk arrangement provides several advantages for dog bite victims:

  • Access to justice: You can afford experienced legal representation even if you cannot pay hourly fees or retainers upfront
  • Attorney motivation: Your lawyer has a strong incentive to maximize your compensation since their fee is directly tied to the amount recovered
  • No financial risk: If your case is unsuccessful, you are not left with substantial legal bills
  • Focus on recovery: You can concentrate on healing from your injuries rather than worrying about accumulating legal expenses

The Porter Law Group offers free, no-obligation consultations to evaluate your dog bite case. During this initial meeting, we will explain our fee structure in detail, answer all your questions, and provide an honest assessment of your case's potential value and likelihood of success. Contact us at 833-PORTER9 or email info@porterlawteam.com to schedule your free consultation today.

Is it worth it to sue for a dog bite?

Whether it is worth pursuing a dog bite lawsuit depends on the specific circumstances of your case, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your financial losses, and the strength of the evidence against the dog owner. In many cases, particularly those involving serious injuries from large breeds like Great Danes, filing a lawsuit or pursuing a settlement claim is absolutely worthwhile.

When It Is Generally Worth Pursuing a Claim:

Significant Medical Expenses: If your dog bite injuries required emergency room treatment, hospitalization, surgery, or ongoing medical care, you likely have substantial economic damages that justify legal action. The average inpatient cost for a dog bite is approximately $18,000, and reconstructive surgery can cost $15,000 to $100,000+ depending on complexity.

Permanent Scarring or Disfigurement: Visible scars, particularly on the face, neck, or hands, can significantly impact your quality of life, self-esteem, and even employment prospects. New York law allows victims to recover substantial compensation for permanent disfigurement.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: If your injuries caused you to miss work or resulted in long-term disability that affects your ability to earn income, these economic losses can be recovered through a legal claim.

Psychological Trauma: Many dog bite victims, especially children, develop PTSD, anxiety, or depression following an attack. The emotional toll of a traumatic dog attack is compensable under New York law.

Clear Liability: When there is strong evidence that the dog owner was negligent, violated leash laws, knew of the dog's dangerous propensities, or failed to properly control the animal, the likelihood of a successful claim increases significantly.

Available Insurance Coverage: Most dog bite claims are covered by the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, meaning there is a source of compensation available to pay your damages.

Factors to Consider:

Severity of Injuries: Minor scratches or nips that required minimal medical treatment may not justify the time and effort of legal action, though you should still consult with an attorney to evaluate your options. Serious injuries, hospitalization, surgery, permanent scarring, or long-term complications generally warrant pursuing a claim.

Statute of Limitations: In New York, you generally have three years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. Claims involving public entities may have notice requirements as short as 90 days. Consulting with an attorney promptly ensures you do not miss critical deadlines.

Comparative Negligence: New York follows comparative negligence rules, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the attack (such as provoking the dog or trespassing). However, even if you share some responsibility, you may still recover substantial compensation.

Risk vs. Reward: With The Porter Law Group's contingency fee arrangement, there is no financial risk to pursuing a claim. You pay no attorney's fees unless we win your case, making legal action accessible regardless of your financial situation.

Benefits Beyond Compensation:

Filing a dog bite claim serves important purposes beyond recovering compensation for your injuries:

  • Holding owners accountable: Legal action encourages responsible dog ownership and helps prevent future attacks
  • Creating official records: Your claim contributes to documentation of dangerous dogs, helping authorities identify animals that pose ongoing public safety risks
  • Protecting others: Your willingness to pursue justice may prevent the same dog from injuring another person

How The Porter Law Group Can Help:

We offer free, no-obligation consultations to evaluate your dog bite case. During this meeting, we will review the facts of your case, assess the strength of your claim, provide an honest evaluation of potential compensation, and explain how we can help you pursue justice without any upfront costs.

Even if you are unsure whether your case is worth pursuing, it costs nothing to speak with our experienced attorneys and get professional guidance. We have successfully recovered substantial settlements and verdicts for dog bite victims throughout New York and can help you understand your legal options.

Envelope Icon

Bitten by a Great Dane in New York?

Reach out to our legal team to know your options (free and non-obligatory).

Contact Us

Contact a Great Dane Dog Bite Injury Attorney

If you or your loved ones have experienced a traumatic incident involving a Great Dane dog bite in New York, it's crucial to seek the right legal support. At the Porter Law Group, we specialize in handling cases specifically related to dog bite injuries, including those involving Great Danes. Our experienced attorneys understand the unique challenges and legal nuances of these cases, particularly following the 2025 Flanders v. Goodfellow decision that expanded victim rights in New York.

We are here to guide you through the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation and justice you deserve. Following a Great Dane attack, you need an attorney who understands both the traditional strict liability framework and the new negligence standard, giving you multiple strategic paths to secure compensation for your injuries.

Contact The Porter Law Group at 833-PORTER9 or email us at info@porterlawteam.com. Our team is dedicated to supporting and representing you in your time of need.

Contact Us for a Free, 24/7 Consultation
833-PORTER9
Testimonials
Cancer Diagnosis Hit Our Family Hard
"My cancer diagnosis hit our family hard. Finding out that I was misdiagned made matters worse. Contacting Porter Law Group was my saving grace. From the start, Mike was at my side reassuring me that he would be there for support and guidance. I felt like family. The firm worked hard for my case and was very successful without going to court. I wouldn't have wanted any other team on my side besides Porter Law! Very professional, friendly and very highly regarded in the legal community. Top notch group." - Chriss S.
Thank You!
"Awesome company staffed hardworking people who are very well organized and concise in their decision making that helped me win my case. Mike Porter is the best personal Injury lawyer in town." - Paul S.
Professionalism Exemplified
"Michael represented our family in a medical malpractice suit. From the first consultation to the ultimate award, Michael and his firm handled the case with compassion, understanding and professionalism. He won the case and we were very satisfied with the award. I would unequivocally recommend Michael Porter as a medical malpractice attorney." - Mary G.
Diligent, determined, and kind
"Thanks to Mike and Eric I received a settlement that even today I can hardly believe it. Their diligence and determination made this settlement happen for me. But I also believe their heartfelt kindness and caring for people who have been wronged need to be compensated." Carolyn C.
PLG Personal Injury Logo

Get a Free Consultation

Contact us to schedule a free, no-obligation meeting to discuss your case and to gain some peace of mind from having all of your questions answered.
Our mission is simple: to defeat the powerful insurance companies that will stop at nothing to take advantage of our injured clients and their families.

If you or a family member has suffered a catastrophic injury or death due to someone’s negligence, you get only one shot to hire the best law firm for your family—the one with the experience and proven ability to get our clients the justice they deserve. Choose the Porter Law Group.
PLG Logo
Albany Office*
69 State Street
13th Floor
Albany, NY 12207
Buffalo Office*
50 Fountain Plaza
Suite 1400
Buffalo, NY 14202
NYC Office*
1177 Avenue of the Americas, 5th floor
New York, NY 10036
Rochester Office*
510 Clinton Square, Rochester, NY 14604
Syracuse Office
100 Madison Street,
15th Floor
Syracuse NY 13202

Avoid sharing confidential information via contact form, text, or voicemail as they are not secure. Please be aware that using any of these communication methods does not establish an attorney-client relationship. *By appointment only.

The information contained on this site is proprietary and protected. Any unauthorized or illegal use, copying, or dissemination will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. All content on this site is provided for informational purposes only. It is not, nor should it be taken as medical or legal advice. None of the content on this site is intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Attorney Advertising.

We serve clients in every city and county in New York State. These include places like: The Adirondacks, Albany, Alexandria Bay, Amsterdam, Astoria, Auburn, Ballston Spa, Batavia, Beacon, Binghamton, Brooklyn, Buffalo, Canandaigua, Carthage, Cattaraugus, Catskill, Cayuga Lake, Cazenovia, Chelsea, Clayton, Clifton Park, Cobleskill, Colonie, Cooperstown, Corning, Cortland, Delhi, Delmar, Dunkirk, East Aurora, East Hampton, Elmira, Fayetteville, Finger Lakes, Flushing, Fredonia, Fulton, Garden City, Geneva, Glen Cove, Glens Falls, Gloversville, Gouverneur, Great Neck, Greenwich Village, Hamilton, Hammondsport, Harlem, Haverstraw, Hempstead, Herkimer, Hornell, Hudson, Huntington, Ilion, Ithaca, Jamaica, Jamestown, Johnstown, Kingston, Lake George, Lake Placid, Lewiston, Little Falls, Liverpool, Lockport, Long Island City, Lowville, Malone, Manhattan, Manlius, Massena, Medina, Middletown, Monticello, Montauk, Mount Vernon, New Paltz, New Rochelle, Newburgh, Niagara Falls, North Tonawanda, Norwich, Nyack, Ogdensburg, Old Forge, Olean, Oneida, Oneonta, Ossining, Oswego, Penn Yan, Peekskill, Plattsburgh, Port Chester, Potsdam, Poughkeepsie, Queens, Rhinebeck, Riverhead, Rochester, Rome, Rye, Sag Harbor, Saranac Lake, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, Seneca Falls, Seneca Lake, Skaneateles, SoHo, Southampton, Spring Valley, Staten Island, Stony Brook, Suffern, Syracuse, Tarrytown, The Bronx, Thousand Islands, Ticonderoga, Troy, Tupper Lake, Utica, Warsaw, Waterloo, Watertown, Watkins Glen, Wellsville, White Plains, Williamsburg, Woodstock, Yonkers, and many more communities throughout New York State.


Copyright © 2025, Porter Law Group. Personal Injury Lawyers
Made with 💛 by Gold Penguin

magnifiercross linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram