Will I Be Covered If My Dog Bites a Trick-or-Treater?
Every year, 4.5 million people are subject to a dog bite in the U.S., and 800,000 of them have to seek medical attention for that dog bite (CDC). The question remains though, are you covered by insurance if your dog takes a snap at a ghoulish trick or treater, or anybody else?
The short answer is, “yes;” however, you know there’s almost always a caveat to these kinds of claims. So we’re here to break that down for you quickly, and easily, so you know you’re taken care of this spooky holiday, and any other day of the year!
Most insurance companies will have an “excluded breed list” that will have all the breeds that they will not include liability coverage for. It will vary company to company, but you’ll most commonly find Pitbulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Dobermans, and Cane Corsos.
Some companies go based on “bite records”. Essentially, the agency will look into your dog’s past, and see if there have been any public records made that show instances of your pup using someone as a chew toy, beyond the universal or playful nip dogs sometimes take.
In general though, animal liability will be covered on your homeowner’s policy. This goes for all domestic pets: dogs, cats, birds, ect.
One last thing to note is that honesty is always the best policy. Don’t play “dumb” with your insurance agent if you have a hybrid dog (mutt), by saying that your dog is, “mosty a labradore,” when you know it’s more pit (or any other excluded breed) than lab. This will only set you up for a headache in the future! Simply let your agent know what mixed breed your dog is (as best as you can gather), and get written confirmation from them saying that they will cover this animal under your homeowners policy. Once it’s in writing, they have to honor that promise of coverage; leaving you and your pup safe!
As always, we’re looking out for you and your loved ones – even if they’re covered in fur and drool all over the place! Call, (765) 644-8847, or email, quotes@howardwebbins.com, today to discuss your options and any questions you may have regarding your insurance plan!
Article written by contract writer and digital media coordinator: Candace Cox. You can reach her at socials@howardwebbins.com or candacecox96@gmail.com.
