One of the most traumatizing accidents that can happen to anyone is being bitten or injured by man's best friend. Dog-related injuries result in physical and emotional scars to the victim. For the dog, it can result in abandonment or euthanasia. While an overwhelming majority of interactions with dogs don't result in injury, most dog bites could be prevented by practicing responsible pet ownership.
Dog bite facts
The following information was provided by the Insurance Information Institute (III):
- Among children, the rate of dog bite injuries is highest for those 5 to 9-years-old. Children should be carefully monitored around dogs. Many dog bites to children occur from dogs considered otherwise friendly. No dog should be trusted around children, especially when the dog is not familiar with the children.
- Liability claims related to dog bites and other dog-related injuries cost homeowners insurers $797 million in 2019, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III) and State Farm®.
- In 2019, State Farm alone paid $146 million dollars for 3,340 dog bite and injury claims.
- The number of dog bite claims nationwide rose to 17,802 in 2019 from 17,297 in 2018 according to an analysis of homeowners insurance data by the Insurance Information Institute.
Dog bites and insurance
State Farm does not ask what breed of dog is owned when writing homeowner or renters insurance. Under the right circumstances, any dog might bite, regardless of breed.
Insurance is an important aspect to being a responsible dog owner. When renting a property make sure to have rental insurance because most landlords do not provide coverage should there be a dog bite incident. If you are a homeowner, talk to your insurance agent about what is covered under a standard homeowners policy related to dogs.
