Will Home Insurance Protect You if Your Dog Bites Someone?

Your dog is just like family to you. Perhaps you've raised it from a pup or rescued it from a shelter. Yet, they are animals and as such, they may react fiercely when they feel threatened. Some animals are more likely to bite than others are. In all cases, you may be wondering what happens if your dog does bite a visitor. Your home insurance can offer you some level of protection, but there are limitations present. It's important that you keep your home insurance provider in the loop when it comes to your dog.

Are Dog Bites Covered?

Dog bites are generally covered by your home insurance policy. If a guest in your home is bitten or your neighbor is bitten, he or she can file a claim to your home insurance company. In most cases, this can cover the person's medical bills and other related losses. This is a component of your liability insurance.

Your policy does have a specific limit, though. It’s important for you to read through your policy to understand how much coverage you have. Most policies will offer ample liability coverage for any lawsuits or claims filed against you because of the dog bite.

Limitations are Present

Many home insurance policies will require you to inform your agent if you have a dog in the home. Additionally, you will need to ensure that your dog is not of a breed that your insurance company specifically excludes. Some policies will list certain breeds of dogs that it does not cover. Additionally, if your dog has bitten someone in the past, your home insurance policy may, at that time, restrict coverage for any further bites or incidents. You'll be informed of this by your insurance provider if that’s the case.

If your neighbor or anyone else is hurt by your dog, contact your insurance provider right away. You will need to file a police report at that time as well. At that time, your insurance provider will work with the individuals involved to ensure their medical needs are covered and to protect your rights. However, it is important that you let your home insurance provider know that you have a dog in the home, even if it has not bitten anyone. Your insurer may require it.

Are you familiar with the details of your policy? Call Avanti Associates at (914) 273-8511 for more information on Armonk home insurance.