When pets attack other people, they could cause real damage. Even though people like to think of their dogs and other animals as friendly and gentle, it’s a reality that some pets are unpredictable. Even the best and most well-trained dog can snap or bite under certain circumstances.
For the most part, if a dog bites another person, the owner of that dog is held responsible. They may have to cover the cost of the injured party’s injuries, and the dog could be quarantined or taken away, depending on the specific situation. Rarely, a vicious dog may be put to sleep by the animal control department after court proceedings.
What is the owner’s responsibility after a dog bite or attack?
After a dog bite happens, the owner of the dog will typically be liable for the damages caused. The owner can be held liable for the damages regardless of the dog’s history. For example, if this is the first time the dog has bitten, that doesn’t mean that the owner won’t have to cover the other party’s injuries. Similarly, if this is not the first attack, the owner will still be held liable.
Should owners consider having insurance for their pets?
Normally, dog bites are covered by homeowner’s insurance when they happen on a person’s private property. If a bite happens in a vehicle, car insurance policy limits may apply. In public, the owner may have no coverage and have to pay out of pocket.
To avoid that issue, many people with dogs select to have pet insurance coverage. Pet insurance may cover a single bite, for instance. In some cases, owners who know that their pet has a history of biting could opt for animal liability insurance from an insurance company that specializes in dangerous dog breeds and high-risk cases.
Since insurance is costly, not many owners carry it. As a result, many owners end up paying for the victim’s care out of their own pocket or with the assistance of home or car insurance. Victims can seek compensation, and the owners will have to look into which, if any, insurance policies cover the attack.