Dog bite claims are increasing at a dramatic rate in the U.S. in 2020, dog bites caused over $480,000 in claims. Over the past three years, the average increase was about 5% per year. In California, the average dog bite claim costs insurers about $25,000 per claim. Texas and Florida were close behind.
Does my homeowner’s insurance cover dog bites?
When someone is hurt as a result of your negligence, such as when they fall on a broken sidewalk or are attacked by a dog in your care, the liability coverage provided by your home’s policy may provide coverage, subject to the policy terms and conditions. Property insurance, which covers your possessions (including structures and belongings), and liability insurance, which covers you, are the two main components of homeowner’s insurance.
Not all homeowner’s insurance policies purchased online may cover costs associated with dog bites. Even those that do may often exclude certain “dangerous” breeds like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers.
Most basic homeowner’s policies we provide do cover injuries resulting from dog bites. We always recommend you contact us if you own a dog or acquire one. If your dog bites a family member living in the home, your homeowner’s policy will not cover that.
These dogs are excluded by many insurers
Many people make the mistake of just buying ‘state minimums’, or other minimum required amounts to save on premiums each month. But that leaves them exposed to potentially have to pay huge sums out of their own pockets – if the damages caused by them are more than their insurance limits. Learn about personal insurance policies, including requirements, costs, and coverage for: Auto Insurance, Homeowners Insurance, Umbrella Insurance, Renters Insurance, and more.
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