Over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs annually in the U.S. according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Those numbers alone help us understand the importance of having dog bite insurance. Dog bites can lead to serious physical and financial consequences. Therefore, dog bite insurance coverage is important to have in case your dog injures someone.
Here, we cover the essentials.
The Basics of Dog Bite Insurance
Dog bite insurance is a specific type of liability insurance that protects dog owners if their dog injures someone or causes property damage.
Homeowner’s insurance and renter’s insurance often include liability coverage for dog bites already. However, there may be limitations to these policies based on the breed of dog or the individual dog’s history. In those instances, dog owners may also consider an umbrella policy or a standalone animal liability insurance for added protection.
It is important to purchase dog bite insurance. Dog owners without it can face legal action and can be held fully responsible for any costs associated with the dog bite victim’s treatment and hardship brought on by the injury.
Common Injuries and Damages from Dog Bites
- Puncture wounds
- Infections
- Scarring
- Broken bones
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Nerve damage
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Rabies
How to Navigate the Dog Bite Insurance Claim Process
If you or someone you know has been a victim of a dog bite, here are some steps you should take:
- Get immediate medical attention.
- Report the dog bite incident to local authorities or animal control. This creates an official record of the incident. to the insurance company
- Gather evidence and documentation. Medical records, witness statements, photographs, and videos will strengthen your case.
- Get the dog owner’s information, including their insurance details if they have some type of animal liability insurance.
- Notify the insurance company as soon as possible.
- Seek the help of a personal injury attorney. An attorney will help you understand your legal rights, explore options, and get fair compensation for your injuries.
Factors Affecting Dog Bite Insurance Claims
Some additional factors that could influence your personal injury claim include:
- The severity of your injuries: This will determine how much compensation you receive.
- How the incident occurred: If you taunted or teased the animal or were trespassing on the homeowner’s property, this might affect whether you have a case.
- Not having good or proper evidence: A lack of evidence may also prevent you from being able to file a claim with the insurance company or seek any added compensation.
Fair compensation for an injury is a right, and staying informed about laws and the claim process can strengthen your path to justice. Victims who are knowledgeable about dog bite insurance, common wounds, and the claims process may receive the best resolution and fair treatment after an injury.
If you have been bitten or injured by someone’s negligent handling of their pet, contact the experienced attorneys at the law office of Timberlake, League, and Brooks. We can help.
