After an animal attack, an injured person may have medical costs, lost wages, and other emotional damages associated with the injuries. While the animal’s owner may be at fault, the damages for these types of cases are paid by the homeowner’s or business insurance. The insurance that covers the dog bite depends on the type of insurance coverage the owner has. In some cases, insurance may not cover the costs of the attack, and a personal injury attorney will need to seek damages from the dog’s owner directly.
Homeowner’s Insurance Policies
For most dog attack cases, homeowner’s or landlord insurance insurance pays for the liability arising from a dog attack as long as the attack, even if the attack did not occur on the dog owner’s property. Typically, a homeowner will have at least $100,000 to $300,000 in liability coverage attached to their homeowner’s insurance policy.
Automobile Insurance Policies
If a dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy doesn’t cover the attack, they may still have coverage through their car insurance policy. Typically, automobile insurance will cover a bite that occurred in or on the car (such as a dog that attacked from the back of a pickup truck). When this occurs, the auto insurer may offer the victim a settlement, but this is based on the liability limits within the auto insurance policy.
Animal Insurance Policies
Some dog owners will have special insurance for their pet. This insurance may cover an animal attack, but some policies specifically exclude coverage for bites and injuries. Also, if the dog is a repeat offender, the policy may exclude them.
When There is No Insurance
If the animal’s owner doesn’t have insurance coverage of any kind, or their insurance refuses to cover the attack and injuries, there are still options for victims. Typically, this means filing a lawsuit against the owner to recover damages.
Speak with a Dog Bite Attorney to Explore Your Options
It may be difficult to identify what coverage is available or how you can go about seeking damages after a vicious dog attack. This is why it is important to speak with an attorney to explore your options for compensation. Contact the Law Offices of Jeffrey H. Penneys, P.C. today to see if your case qualifies for compensation. You can schedule a free consultation now by calling 215-771-0430 (cell) or 215-987-3550 (office). You can also request your appointment online.