Injured in a Police Dog Attack
Were you the victim of an unprovoked or unjustified police dog attack? Whether you were mistakenly targeted as a suspect or the dog attacked for no apparent reason, you have the right to pursue compensation for the resulting damages, including medical expenses, lost wages during recovery, pain and suffering, and more. However, cases against law enforcement entities can be complicated and difficult to resolve in the claimant’s favor, which is why you should get help from an experienced attorney who has experience handling such matters.
For over 20 years, the personal injury attorneys at Demas Law Group, P.C., have been defending the rights of Sacramento dog bite victims. To discuss whether you have a valid claim, please contact our office today. We can provide you with a comprehensive overview of your rights and legal options in a free confidential consultation. Our number is (916) 764-3059. We are on standby 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Sacramento Dog Bite Laws and Police Dog Attacks
California Civil Code section 3342 provides significant immunity against law enforcement liability for injuries inflicted by police dogs. To be more specific, an individual cannot bring a lawsuit against a law enforcement entity for a police dog bite if “the dog was defending itself from an annoying, harassing, or provoking act” or assisting an officer in any of the following:
- Apprehension or holding of a criminal suspect
- In a criminal investigation
- In the execution of a warrant
- In the defense of an officer or another person
However, if a police dog, without reason, attacks an individual who is an innocent bystander or otherwise not a criminal suspect, s/he may bring a liability lawsuit against the responsible law enforcement officials.
Excessive Force Considerations
Every case presents its own unique circumstances. But while any given case may turn out differently, there are some factors which are consistently considered by the court when determining whether a police dog bite incident involved excessive force:
- What kind of crime was the victim suspected of?
- Did the suspect pose a danger to others?
- Was the suspect actively fleeing arrest?
- How severe were the injuries that resulted from the dog bite?
- Did the suspect surrender quickly?
- Did the cops issue a verbal warning before releasing the dog?
- Did the dog attack the suspect on command or was it out of control?
- Did the cop order the dog to attack the suspect out of malice?
Federal civil rights statute 42 U.S.C. Section 1983 gives you the right to sue law enforcement officials in certain cases involving excessive force. You may be entitled to large damages, depending on the facts of the case and the severity of the attack. Discuss your case with a knowledgeable attorney to learn more about your best options for recovery.
Police Dog Bite Attorneys in Sacramento: No Recovery, No Fee Guarantee
It is understandable if you are reluctant to consult with us because you don’t want to pay exorbitant attorney fees. Fortunately for you, we do not charge our clients upfront fees. Also, if we’re not able to make a recovery, we won’t ask for a cent. So, there is no reason to delay – contact Demas Law Group, P.C., today to get started on your claim.
This literature may be considered attorney advertising or an offer of professional services, according to rule 1-400 Rules of Professional Conduct by the State Bar of California. The information does not constitute a guarantee, warranty or prediction regarding the outcome of your potential legal matter.
