Homeowners Insurance and Dog Bite Claims

Having a dog is great way to bring a little extra love into your house. However, it also makes you vulnerable for a dog bite claim with your insurance company. Even normally calm, well-trained dogs can bite if they feel threatened.

Even though the number of dog bite claims is decreasing, the cost of each claim is getting higher each year. In the past 10 years, the average cost per dog bite claim has increased by over 65 percent as a result of increased medical bills and the size of judgments, settlements, and jury awards.

California is still the number one state when it comes to the number of dog bite claims, followed by Ohio. The current trend of higher costs of dog bite claims is not only due to actual dog bite cases, but also to dogs who knock down cyclists, children, and senior citizens.

The best way to protect yourself from a dog bite claim is to properly train your dog and to try to avoid any potentially stressful situations that could cause them to bite. Having the right homeowners insurance policy will also work to keep you covered in case of a claim.

For all of your home insurance needs, and to protect you and your furry friends, contact Randy Jones Insurance Services in Pleasanton, California.