Lindell G. Douglas, CFP®
Managing Partner

(954) 306-8668

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

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

Use this calculator to compare the future value of investments with different tax consequences.

Choosing a Business Structure

Choosing a Business Structure

Entrepreneurs all face the same question, “Which business structure should I adopt?”

Perception vs. Reality

Perception vs. Reality

There’s an alarming difference between perception and reality for current and future retirees.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Debt Stress

There’s a link between debt and stress.

Directors and Officers Liability Insurance

Not only can D&O insurance provide financial protection, but it can help improve an organization’s decision-making.

Protection Against Uninsured Drivers

You’re hit by an uninsured driver. Now what? Are you protected against financial losses?

View all articles

Self-Employed Retirement Plans

Estimate the maximum contribution amount for a Self-Employed 401(k), SIMPLE IRA, or SEP.

Federal Income Tax

Use this calculator to estimate your income tax liability along with average and marginal tax rates.

Paying Off a Credit Card

Enter various payment options and determine how long it may take to pay off a credit card.

View all calculators

An Inside Look at Retirement Living

A number of questions and concerns need to be addressed to help you better prepare for retirement living.

Protecting Those Who Matter Most

The importance of life insurance, how it works, and how much coverage you need.

Long-Term-Care Protection Strategies

The chances of needing long-term care, its cost, and strategies for covering that cost.

View all presentations

Leaving Your Lasting Legacy

Want to do more with your wealth? You might want to consider creating a charitable foundation.

Timing Your Retirement

This short video illustrates why knowing when to retire can be a crucial part of your strategy.

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

$1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.

View all videos