MooneyOnMoney.com

Insurance Read Time: 2 min

Dog Bites Neighbor. Now What?

In 2022, there were 17,597 dog bite claims nationwide, totaling aggregate damages of over $1 billion, according to the Insurance Information Institute.1

For most homeowners (and renters), a standard policy generally covers any legal liability that may result from their dog biting or harming another individual. Typically, this coverage is designed to extend to places outside the home (e.g., a walk in the park), but may not include what happens inside a car.2

However, this coverage is not unlimited. There is a cap to liability coverage (check your policy for the limits of your coverage), and your policy may limit such coverage to one bite.

Canine Considerations

Many insurers may either cancel the policy or add a canine exclusion after paying such a claim, which means that you will be responsible for all damages in the event of a second bite.

Some policies exclude certain dog breeds from the outset, so be sure to review your coverage to ensure that your dog is not among the excluded breeds.

Also, be aware of a business exclusion that may not pay on claims arising from a dog bite that occurs while you are conducting business in your place of residence.

Finally, it is important to let your insurer know if your dog bites someone or is declared dangerous under local law. Failure to inform them may affect liability coverage for subsequent injuries caused by your dog.

1. III.org, April 5, 2023
2. The information in this material is not intended as legal advice. Please consult legal or insurance professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

Buying Auto Insurance For Teen Drivers

Buying Auto Insurance For Teen Drivers

Tips on insuring your teen driver.

Your Changing Definition of Risk in Retirement

Your Changing Definition of Risk in Retirement

A change in your mindset during retirement may drive changes to your portfolio.

Rightsizing for Retirement

Rightsizing for Retirement

What does your home really cost?

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Understanding Marginal Income Tax Brackets

An inside look at how marginal income tax brackets work.

Insurance Needs Assessment: Married With Children

When you’re married and have children, insurance needs will be different.

An Overview of Renter’s Insurance

Don’t overlook the need for renter’s insurance if you rent your home.

View all articles

What Is My Life Expectancy?

Estimate how many years you may need retirement assets or how long to provide income to a surviving spouse or children.

Comparing Investments

This calculator compares the net gain of a taxable investment versus a tax-favored one.

What's My Potential Estate Tax?

This calculator helps estimate your federal estate tax liability.

View all calculators

Principles of Preserving Wealth

How federal estate taxes work, plus estate management documents and tactics.

5 Smart Investing Strategies

There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives

5 Smart Investing Principles

Principles that can help create a portfolio designed to pursue investment goals.

View all presentations

Making Your Tax Bracket Work

Have you explored all your options when it comes to managing your taxable income?

Retiring the 4% Rule

A portfolio created with your long-term objectives in mind is crucial as you pursue your dream retirement.

It May Be Time for a Financial Checkup

It’s never a bad time to speak with your financial professional about changes in your situation.

View all videos