Owners Pay for Dog Misbehavior

As dog bite incidents occur more and more frequently, insurance companies are upping their game to when it comes to homeowners insurance policies. According to dailyfinance.com, dog bite claims rose by over five percent last year. A study found that this amounted to $483 million dollars in payouts to victims. The study, conducted by the Insurance Information Institute and State Farm Insurance, indicated that while California had most dog bite claims, New York had the most expensive, costing nearly $43,000 per payout.

There has been such a rise in such claims that some insurance companies are even having dog owners sign waivers relieving the company from responsibility in case of a dog bite incident. If you own a breed with a dangerous reputation, like a pit bull, you may even struggle to find a company willing to cover you, the study said.

Laws regarding dog biting cases are different in each state, but in general, if your dog bites someone without provocation, you will likely be held responsible. Liability can also depend upon your dog’s history. If it’s a breed with a violent reputation or with a personal history of biting people, you’ll likely be held responsible. Take every precaution to prevent your dog from biting someone, even if they don’t have a history of violence. Always use a leash when going for a walk and consider muzzling aggressive dogs. An even better way to prevent violent behavior is to seek out professional dog training and help change your dog’s demeanor.

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