Dog Bite Attorneys: Who Pays and What Insurance Won’t Tell You
Victims who have suffered injuries from a dog bite oftentimes contact dog bite attorneys who understand the necessary steps and safety precautions to take to work toward recovery. Dog bite accidents cause skyrocketing medical bills and feelings of uncertainty about who may be responsible. This article will discuss how liability works, what insurance may or may not cover, and the steps individuals can take that may make a significant difference for victims and dog owners. In addition, understanding dog bites and the importance of contacting a dog bite attorney is crucial to maintaining your overall health and well-being moving forward.
Who Pays After a Dog Bite?
After a dog bite accident has occurred, many individuals wonder who is to blame. It is important to understand that states like California follow a strict liability rule, meaning the owner of the dog may be held responsible for injuries and damages. This is the case even if that dog had never shown signs of aggression before the incident. Payment for the harm oftentimes comes from homeowners' insurance policies, which ultimately include liability coverage for injuries caused by dogs. Understanding homeowners' insurance policies and their limitations is crucial to maintaining your safety after a dog bite injury.
What Insurance Won’t Always Tell You
While homeowners' insurance can provide a source of compensation, there are several important limitations that victims should understand. These may include, but are not limited to, the following.
1. Breed Restrictions
Some insurance policies exclude coverage for certain dog breeds. These exclusions are as follows.
- Pit Bulls
- Rottweilers
- Doberman Pinschers
- German Shepherds
- Wolf hybrids
2. Policy Exclusions
Even if a policy exists, it may contain exclusions such as:
- Prior known aggressive behavior
- Failure to disclose the dog to the insurer
- Accidents occurring off the insured property
3. Coverage Limits
Insurance policies often have limits and restrictions. If medical expenses, lost income, or other damages exceed those limits, further recovery may require pursuing the dog owner directly.
What Happens if a Dog Bites for the First, Second, or Third Time?
First Bite
In the state of California, a first bite does not excuse the owner. Even if the dog has never bitten anyone before, the owner may still be responsible for injuries.
Second Bite
A second dog bite accident can cause additional challenges and complications, including but not limited to the following.
- Insurance companies may reconsider or cancel coverage
- The dog may be labeled as dangerous under local regulations
- The owner may face stricter requirements, such as confinement or warnings
Third Bite (or Repeated Incidents)
Repeated incidents can significantly increase consequences:
- Greater scrutiny from local authorities
- Potential legal restrictions on the dog
- Increased financial exposure for the owner if insurance denies coverage
Every case is different, so it is important for victims to consider a dog bite attorney to help them understand their rights and the legalities of their specific case to ensure they receive the justice they need to make a recovery.
What Victims Should Do Immediately
Victims who have suffered injuries from a dog bite accident should consider the following steps to help decrease the chance of further harm and damage.
- Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor
- Document your injuries if it is safe to do so ( take pictures and videos)
- Identify the dog and the owner by gathering contact and insurance information
- Report the incident to local authorities to reduce the risk of further harm.
- Avoid making assumptions about how the accident happened or the injuries you've suffered
- Consider speaking to a dog bite attorney to help you better understand your case and rights moving forward.
What Dog Owners Should Know
Dog owners should be aware of the responsibilities and safety precautions surrounding their pets. These may include, but are not limited to, the following.
- Disclose your dog to your insurer
- Understand your insurance policy
- Take the necessary safety measures and precautions by securing your fence and supervising your pet
Legal Guidance and A Call to Action
Victims who have suffered injuries from a dog bite accident should consider speaking to a dog bite attorney who can help them understand their rights and the legalities of their personal injury case moving forward. Navigating a dog bite case can be challenging and pose additional complications for victims going through an already difficult time. An attorney may review the facts of your case, speak to insurance companies, and explain applicable laws that may be appropriate for your claim in the future. Individuals in Southern California should consider a dog bite lawyer in Glendale who can provide local insight into how these cases are often handled.
How KAASS LAW Can Help
Dog bite attorneys play an important role in helping people navigate the legal and insurance challenges that can follow an attack. The experienced personal injury attorneys of KAASS LAW understand the challenges victims may face when dealing with the aftermath of a dog bite accident. We want to help individuals understand their rights and the necessary steps they may need to take to work towards recovery. If you have suffered injuries from a dog bite accident, you are not alone. Call KAASS LAW today to learn more and discuss your potential options.