Does Your Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Dog Bites? Don’t Assume It Does
Dog bite insurance coverage is something every Florida homeowner should review. Many people assume their homeowner’s insurance policy will protect them if their dog bites someone. However, that is not always true. In Florida, some homeowner’s insurance policies exclude dog bite claims or animal liability coverage unless the homeowner purchases a separate endorsement.
Why Dog Bite Insurance Coverage Matters
This issue is serious. Our firm recently reviewed a matter where a neighbor’s dog bit our client, causing the loss of a finger. That is a life-changing injury. It also raises a hard question: does the dog owner actually have insurance coverage for the claim?
Unfortunately, many homeowners do not know the answer until after something bad happens.
In fact, a dog bite claim can involve medical bills, surgery, lost wages, pain and suffering, permanent injury, and legal fees. Without dog liability coverage, the homeowner may have to pay the claim out of pocket. That means the injured person may have fewer options for recovery, and the dog owner may face a large personal financial risk.
Fortunately, the solution is simple: check your policy now.
Questions Every Dog Owner Should Ask
Before an incident occurs, call your insurance agent and ask the following questions:
- Do I have dog bite or animal liability coverage?
- Is it included in my personal liability coverage?
- Do I need a separate dog liability or animal liability endorsement?
- Are any breeds excluded?
- Is there a lower limit for dog bite claims?
- Is my specific dog covered?
- Do not accept a verbal assurance that ‘you should be fine’. Ask for the answer in writing and request the actual endorsement or exclusion language.
If you own a dog, this coverage is not optional in any practical sense. It protects you, your family, your assets, and the person who may be injured. Dog bites can happen quickly, even with a dog that has never shown aggression before. Learn more from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation
Therefore, take a few minutes this week to review your homeowner’s insurance policy. If you do not have dog bite or animal liability coverage, ask your agent about adding the endorsement immediately.
Protect Your Family and Your Assets
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office: 386-445-8900 or learn more about our firm.
About the Author
Michael D. Chiumento III is a Real Estate and Personal Injury lawyer who has been helping those in the Flagler County community since 1999. He represents institutional clients, developers, lenders, and local governments in the area of real estate law. His practice is informed by his prior work as a civil engineer designing, permitting and constructing subdivisions and government infrastructure. He also represents those whose lives have been disrupted by personal injury or wrongful death. His personal injury practice focuses on car, truck, motorcycle, or boating accidents, as well as slip and fall and construction accidents. Mr. Chiumento is a proud member of the Flagler County community and has held leadership positions in various local organizations.