My dog bit my neighbor’s child. Does my homeowner’s insurance cover me? In the US, approximately 69 million domestic dogs share a household in a family home, according to a 2022 study by the American Pet Products Association.
Having a pet is a beautiful experience but comes with responsibilities. Sometimes, dogs can behave unpredictably. In 2022, in Florida alone, there were 1,331 insurance claims related to dog bites, resulting in over $104 million in expenses for their owners.
If your dog bites someone, it’s natural to be concerned about the legal and financial consequences. In this scenario, homeowner’s insurance can come to your rescue.
In most cases, homeowner’s insurance will cover injuries caused by your dog to other people. This includes bites to third parties, such as your neighbor’s child. Coverage typically includes medical and legal expenses associated with the incident.
However, it’s essential to understand that some dog breeds may be excluded from coverage or face limitations due to local regulations or insurance company requirements. Additionally, if negligence on the part of the owner is proven – such as the dog being off-leash, the house fence being open, or the dog’s presence not being disclosed – coverage could be compromised.
To avoid future problems, consider taking preventive measures, such as training your dog and keeping it under control in the presence of visitors. Also, please inform your insurance company about your pet’s presence in your home so they can give you the appropriate coverage.
In case your dog bites someone, act immediately. Seek medical attention for the injured person and take note of the incident’s details. Then, contact your insurance company so they can initiate the claims process.
In conclusion, homeowner’s insurance is crucial if you have pets, as it protects you in unforeseen situations. However, prevention and owner responsibility are equally vital. Suppose you have doubts about the protections your insurance provides. In that case, you can contact a Univista Insurance agent to help you understand your policy, what it covers, and what it doesn’t so you can take the necessary steps to prevent adverse incidents. My dog bit my neighbor’s child. Does my homeowner’s insurance cover me?
Give us a call today for a full qualification! (305) 267-7138. You can also get a free quote here.
