The K9 police unit is a specialized group of officers who use service dogs to enforce the law. These dogs are meant to help in apprehending criminal suspects and detecting illicit substances. However, there are times when, during their work, the trained dogs can attack and injure an innocent person. Dog bites can be excruciatingly painful, and they will also cost you a fortune in medical bills. Therefore, if you or your close friend is unfortunate enough to encounter police K9 attacks, it is essential to seek legal help.

However, suing a police officer for a dog bite is not as simple as suing a typical dog owner. That’s why you need the following information before pursuing a legal claim.

1. Know When to Sue

Different states have varying laws and regulations concerning the conduct of police dogs. Therefore, there are instances when there is no liability, especially if the dog is in the course of its duties. For example, if you are a suspect in a crime, you may not sue a dog for apprehending and biting you as it attempts to hold you down. On the other hand, dogs aren’t allowed to attack innocent bystanders. Therefore, if you are not a suspect in the crime and get attacked, you are entitled to compensation from the police department.

2. Know Who to Sue

Knowing who to sue after police K9 attacks will determine the amount of compensation you get, or whether you get any at all. You should not sue the individual officer who was the dog’s handler. Instead, you should sue the police department as it is liable for injuries and damages caused by their dogs. In some instances, you can even sue both the state and the local police department. Only make sure that you can justify your claims. This can be done by citing medical bills, emotional torture, counseling bills, and out-of-work compensation among other damages.

3. Seek Legal Assistance

Filing a lawsuit against a police department or the state is not an easy task. Law-savvy attorneys can quickly turn the case against you and throw out your claim. For example, they can state and try to prove that you provoked the police dog; hence, the injuries were warranted. That’s why you need to seek legal assistance. An attorney who has dealt with liability cases before can help you win the suit and get the necessary compensation.

Being attacked by a K9 can be a painful and emotionally scarring experience. Follow these tips to make sure that you get adequate compensation for the unwarranted injuries.