Are You Protected Against Dog Bite Lawsuits?

Dog Bite Accident Lawyer in Delray Beach Says Most Dog Owners Do NOT Have Protection!! 

In Florida, dog-related injuries account for one-third of all homeowner insurance liability claims, highlighting the importance of understanding dog bite insurance coverage. Many homeowners insurance policies include exclusions for dog bites to limit their exposure, leaving dog owners potentially unprotected.

Zappitell Law Firm, a leading dog bite accident law firm in Delray Beach’s Pineapple Grove Arts District, emphasizes the critical need for dog owners to be aware of their coverage. Without adequate protection, owners could face significant financial burdens in the event of a dog bite incident.

Understanding Florida’s Homeowners Insurance Policies on Dog Bites

For Delray Beach and Boynton Beach residents, homeowners insurance typically covers dog bite liability, but many policies have exclusions or limitations, especially for certain breeds. Insurers are increasingly including these exclusions to minimize risk. If your policy has a dog bite exclusion, you might be left paying out-of-pocket for any damages or legal fees.

Dog Breeds Not Typically Covered by Florida Insurers

Many Florida insurers refuse to cover certain dog breeds considered high-risk. According to Home Insured, the breeds typically excluded are:

1. Pit Bulls
2. Rottweilers
3. German Shepherds
4. Huskies
5. Alaskan Malamutes
6. Doberman Pinschers
7. Chow Chows
8. Great Danes
9. St. Bernards
10. Akitas
11. Wolf-hybrids
12. Mastiffs

It is highly recommended that you review the policy with your insurer if you own one of these dog breeds. Not knowing, won’t protect you.

Florida’s Strict Liability Rule

Florida operates under a strict liability rule for dog bites, meaning the owner is liable regardless of the dog’s past behavior or the owner’s knowledge of potential danger. According to Florida Statutes Section 767.04, the dog owner is responsible if their dog bites someone, even if the dog has never shown aggression before. However, if the injured person’s negligence contributed to the incident, the owner’s liability may be reduced.

Exceptions to the Rule

There are exceptions to Florida’s strict liability rule:

• If the owner displayed a sign with the words “Bad Dog” on their property.
• If the person bitten was trespassing or provoking the dog.
• If the injured party was partly at fault, their compensation could be reduced.

Dog Bite Statistics in Floridares

According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), U.S. home insurers paid nearly $900 million in dog-related claims in 2021, emphasizing the financial impact of dog bites. With a significant portion of these claims originating from Florida, Delray Beach residents must understand their dog bite insurance coverage and legal responsibilities.

In that 2021 study by the III, it was reported that Florida had almost 1,500 dog bite claims that resulted in over $81 million in judgments against the dog owners.

Protecting Yourself with the Right Coverage

To ensure you’re protected against dog bite lawsuits, it’s crucial to understand your homeowners insurance policy. Typically, these policies provide liability coverage ranging from $100,000 to $300,000. However, given the high costs associated with dog bite claims, this coverage might not be sufficient.