Law enforcement officials all over the country use police dogs, or dogs specially trained to assist them in their work. Police dogs gather evidence, protect police officers, and even help with making arrests. These dogs are trained to track suspects on command, corner them, and knock them down if needed. Although they may be trained to bite individuals in order to subdue them, they are not, however, trained to maul or kill.
Determining Liability for Police Dog Bites
There are times when a police dog inflicts serious injury on an innocent individual. When this situation arises, it can be very difficult for the victim to file a claim and seek monetary compensation for his or her injuries, particularly if the dog was acting in the line of duty or on patrol. Although unlikely, it is possible for police officers to misuse their police dog, or for the police dog to injure another person even when off-duty.
In certain instances, a victim of a police dog bite or attack may seek monetary compensation for sustained injuries if grounds for this civil lawsuit include activity outside the law enforcement official’s scope, violation of civil rights, excessive force, or injury by a dog that was off-duty when the victim was attacked or bitten.
Consult With An Attorney
New Jersey dog bite laws state a statute of limitations, or a specific period of time in which a victim may file a claim against a negligent party. If a police dog has bitten you, it is crucial that you consult with a competent New Jersey dog bite attorney as soon as possible, whether or not the dog that bit you was on or off-duty.
A capable and knowledgeable attorney from The Grossman Law Firm may be able to help you obtain financial compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other related costs.