If you or a family member have been injured by a German Shepherd 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.
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.
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.
The German Shepherd breed was developed in the late 19th centuries by Max von Stephanitz, a former captain in the German cavalry with a goal to create a German herding dog that could excel in both intelligence and athleticism.
They served in various capacities, including as messengers, rescue dogs, and in law enforcement. The German Shepherd's initial role was herding and protecting sheep in Germany. Their bravery and versatility were highly regarded by military forces.
While German Shepherds are not inherently aggressive, their temperament can lead to aggressive behavior if not properly trained and socialized. Factors such as genetics, training, environment, and socialization play a significant role in shaping their behavior. It's crucial for owners to understand the importance of early socialization and proper training to prevent any aggressive tendencies.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 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.
In 2021 U.S. report on dog bites, there were 113 attacks and 15 fatalities attributed to German Shepherds. Despite these figures, they are not classified as Potentially Dangerous Dogs (PDD) and maintain a strong reputation, particularly due to their effectiveness as police assistants.
As guard dogs, German Shepherds are instinctively inclined to manage their “flock,” and misunderstandings of their behavior and signals can lead to unfortunate incidents.
New York follows a mixed "one-bite" rule under the Agriculture and Markets Law, specifically Section 123. This means a dog owner may not be liable for the first bite by their dog, but only if they had no reason to believe the dog was dangerous. However, this is balanced by a strict liability clause for medical costs. Regardless of the dog's previous behavior, the owner is held strictly liable for any medical expenses resulting from a dog bite.
Additionally, New York has a Dangerous Dog Law. According to this statute, if a dog is classified as "dangerous," the owner's liability increases. This classification comes into play in situations where a dog inflicts injury or demonstrates behavior that a reasonable person would consider as posing an imminent and serious threat of physical injury or death.
Victims of dog bites should report the incident to local authorities and may have the right to take legal action to seek compensation for their injuries.
If you or your loved ones have experienced a traumatic incident involving a German Shepherd dog bite in New York, it's crucial to seek the right legal support.
At Porter Law Group, we specialize in handling cases specifically related to dog bite injuries, including those involving German Shepherds. Our experienced attorneys understand the unique challenges and legal nuances of these cases.
We are here to guide you through the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation and justice you deserve. 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.
