Even the most well-behaved dog could cause injury to another person or animal. Nipping a neighbor, knocking someone down, or scratching someone are just a few ways your dog could cause an injury. In Texas, it’s essential to understand how the liability coverage on your homeowner’s insurance policy could bring you peace of mind if this happens.
It depends on where you live
Laws about dog bites vary from state to state and there are three types of laws that cover dog bites:
- Dog-bite statute – Owners are responsible for any injuries or property damage that their dog causes.
- One bite rule- Owners are deemed responsible for an injury caused by their dog if it can be proved that they knew their dog was dangerous or aggressive. The one-bite rule used to be the most common dog bite law. However, several states have amended the one-bite rule and hold owners responsible for any injury caused by their dog even if there is no proof of prior aggressiveness.
- Negligence laws – These laws hold dog owners liable if it can be proved that they were careless in controlling their dogs.
Protect yourself with insurance
Most homeowner’s insurance cover dog bite liability. However, if the cost of damages exceeds your coverage amount, you will be personally responsible for the excess amount. Also, if your dog bites someone, you can expect your premium to go up. You might even be asked to sign a liability waiver on dog bite injuries, or your dog could be excluded from coverage completely.
Remember, you are responsible for your dog. If you think he might bite someone, you must consider muzzling or keeping him restrained and away from situations that might cause him to become aggressive.
