Dog attacks can be violent incidents that inflict severe, catastrophic and life-changing injuries on victims. If the owner of the dog has renters insurance, this could cover a claim filed by the dog bite injury victim. Knowing how this type of insurance claim works could help you achieve justice and a fair financial recovery if you get bitten by a dog in Texas. A San Antonio personal injury lawyer can help you if you were injured by a dog.
Renters Insurance Covers Most Dog Bite Claims in Texas
Under state law, dogs in Texas are classified as property. The owner of the dog’s property insurance policy will cover damage inflicted by the animal, including injuries suffered by dog bite victims. Property insurance policies such as homeowners insurance, commercial property or business insurance, and renters insurance can all provide coverage for dog bite injuries.
However, personal liability protection under a renters insurance policy generally does not cover medical expenses for someone who lives with the policyholder. The injured victim must be a guest on the property or a stranger under the provisions of many policies. In addition, not all companies will cover dog bite incidents that occur away from the rental property, such as during a walk or at a dog park.
Exceptions for Dangerous or Restricted-Breed Dogs
It is common for renters insurance companies to enforce breed-specific exclusions to dog bite liability coverage. This is the insurance company’s way of protecting itself from liability for severe attacks, such as those that cause catastrophic injuries, permanent disfigurement or disability, and wrongful death.
Many renters insurance companies have lists of dog breeds to which liability coverage does not extend. These lists often include dogs that are statistically more likely to be involved in fatal bite incidents, such as pit bulls, rottweilers and boxers, as well as mixes of these breeds. Certain policies may also have restrictions based on a dog’s weight.
Pet-friendly renters insurance companies may not restrict coverage based on breed, but based on the dog’s history. In this case, if the dog had a record of reported bite incidents or was designated by local animal control authorities as a “dangerous dog,” the company may deny coverage.
Steps to Take After a Dog Attack
If you get bitten by a dog in Texas, get to a safe place away from the dog and exchange information with the pet owner. Ask if the owner has any type of property insurance, including renters insurance. If so, write down the individual’s insurance information, including the name of the company and policy number.
Document the incident by reporting it to San Antonio Animal Care Services at 311 or (210) 207-6000. If the dog’s teeth broke your skin and you believe you could be at risk of contracting rabies, you are legally required to report the event to animal services. Animal control will investigate and may quarantine the dog for 10 days to screen for rabies.
Get professional medical care for your dog bite injuries without delay. Document your treatment history by keeping copies of your medical records and bills. Take photographs of your injuries, as well. When you are ready to file a claim, contact the pet owner’s renters insurance company to notify them of the incident.
How to File a Renters Insurance Claim for a Dog Bite in Texas
You may need to submit evidence of your losses to the insurance provider, such as your medical records. If the insurance company denies your claim or is not offering what you believe to be a fair settlement based on the extent or severity of your injuries, consult with a dog bite injury lawyer in San Antonio for assistance.
To discuss a recent dog bite incident in Texas with an attorney at no cost or obligation, contact Hill Law Firm Accident and Injury Attorneys. A lawyer can negotiate with a renters insurance company on your behalf to fight for a fair case outcome while you focus on healing from your injuries. Contact us today.