Getting bitten by a police dog is serious. It can be painful, traumatic, and even life-changing. If it happened to you or someone you love in Victorville, you may be wondering what your rights are—and what steps you should take next.
Police dogs, also called K-9s, are trained to help law enforcement. But when used the wrong way, they can cause severe harm. Sometimes, these injuries happen to people who didn’t do anything wrong. And that’s when you need to know: You have rights—and you may need help from a Victorville civil rights attorney.
When Is a Police Dog Bite Considered Excessive Force?
Police can use some force when necessary, but there are limits. The U.S. Constitution protects people from “excessive force.” That means law enforcement officers can’t use more force than needed for the situation.
If you were bitten by a police dog and:
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You were unarmed
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You had already surrendered
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You weren’t running or resisting
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You were not suspected of a violent crime
Then the dog bite might count as excessive force. In cases like these, your civil rights may have been violated. A Victorville civil rights attorney can review what happened and help you figure out what to do next.
What Should You Do After a Police Dog Bite?
If you were bitten by a police K-9, take these steps as soon as possible:
1. Get Medical Attention
Even if it doesn’t seem serious, dog bites can cause deep infections, nerve damage, or even permanent scars. Go to a hospital or urgent care right away.
2. Document Everything
Take photos of your injuries. Save your clothes if they were torn or bloodied. Write down everything you remember about what happened.
3. Get Witness Statements
If anyone saw what happened, ask them to write down what they saw—or record it on video. Witnesses can help back up your story.
4. File a Complaint
You have the right to file a complaint against the police department. This helps create a paper trail in case you want to take legal action.
5. Talk to a Civil Rights Attorney
Police dog bite cases can be hard to fight alone. A Victorville civil rights attorney understands how these cases work. They can help you get justice and possibly compensation for your injuries, lost wages, pain, and emotional distress.
Can You Sue for a Police Dog Bite?
Yes, in some cases. If the force was excessive or the police acted negligently, you may be able to file a civil rights lawsuit. This could lead to a settlement or trial, depending on your case.
But you must act quickly. There are time limits (called statutes of limitations) for filing claims. If you wait too long, you could lose your chance.
Why You Need a Victorville Civil Rights Attorney
These cases are more than just about medical bills. They’re about justice, accountability, and making sure it doesn’t happen to someone else.
A skilled Victorville civil rights attorney will:
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Investigate your case
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Collect evidence
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Speak with witnesses
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Handle all legal paperwork
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Fight for your rights in and out of court
Don’t try to take on the system alone. Police departments have lawyers protecting them—you should too.
You Deserve to Be Heard
Being bitten by a police dog is not something anyone should go through, especially if you were not doing anything wrong. You deserve answers. You deserve respect. And most importantly, you deserve justice.
If you're not sure what your next step should be, talking to James S. Terrell Law Office can make all the difference. They can walk you through your options and help you get the support you need.
James S. Terrell Law Office
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