Your dog might be your best friend, but what happens when man’s best friend becomes a liability? Dog bites are one of the most common causes of homeowners insurance claims, and if you’re not careful, they can leave you exposed to significant financial risk. Let’s break down how homeowners’ insurance handles dog bites—and what you need to watch out for.
The Basics: Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Dog Bites?
In most cases, yes. Homeowners’ insurance typically includes personal liability coverage, which can cover medical bills, legal fees, and damages if your dog bites someone. However, coverage isn’t always straightforward. Policies often have exclusions, limits, or conditions that could leave you footing the bill.
Common Coverage Pitfalls
- Breed Restrictions:
Some insurers exclude coverage for certain breeds deemed “high-risk,” such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, or Dobermans. Even if your dog isn’t on the list, it’s essential to disclose its breed when applying for coverage to avoid disputes later. - Policy Limits:
Liability limits vary, but many policies cap payouts for dog bite claims. For example, an endorsement might limit coverage to $25,000—even if your overall liability limit is $500,000. - Exclusions for Prior Incidents:
If your dog has a history of aggression or previous bites, your insurer may exclude coverage entirely. This was evident in cases like the one involving Tank, a bulldog whose prior unreported bite led to a denied claim after a subsequent attack.
Real-World Case Study: The Cost of Misunderstanding Coverage
In one notable case, a homeowner’s policy included an animal liability exclusion that capped coverage for dog bites at $25,000. When their dog bit a neighbor, the victim sued for over $250,000. The insurer paid the $25,000 limit, leaving the homeowner responsible for the remaining $225,000. This highlights the importance of understanding your policy’s exclusions and limits before an incident occurs.
How to Protect Yourself
- Review Your Policy:
Check for breed restrictions, liability limits, and exclusions. If you’re unsure, ask your agent to clarify. - Consider an Umbrella Policy:
Umbrella insurance can provide additional liability coverage beyond your homeowners policy, offering peace of mind for high-cost claims. - Disclose Everything:
Always be upfront about your dog’s breed, behavior, and history. Misrepresentation can void your coverage entirely, as seen in cases where policyholders failed to disclose aggressive breeds or prior incidents - Invest in Training:
A well-trained dog is less likely to bite, reducing your liability risk. Some insurers may even offer discounts for dogs that complete certified training programs.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Leave It to Chance
Dog bites are unpredictable, but your financial protection doesn’t have to be. By understanding your homeowners insurance policy and taking proactive steps to mitigate risk, you can ensure that you—and your furry friend—are covered when it matters most.
Want to make sure your policy has you covered? Contact us today for a free review of your homeowners’ insurance. Let’s make sure you’re protected from nose to tail.