Understanding Dog Bite Claims: What to Do If Your Dog Bit Someone

Almost any dog could unexpectedly bite someone when surprised or scared, and possibly even by accident when playing rough. In fact, in 2024, there were over 22,658 dog bite claims filed in the U.S., representing a nearly 19% increase from the number of dog bite claims filed in 2023. Moreover, those numbers don’t include the numerous other bites that didn’t result in an insurance claim.

Dog Bite Liability Laws

Should your dog ever bite someone and break the skin, you could likely be held liable. Although liability laws vary by state, dog owners are generally held responsible for their dog’s actions, which can include being financially liable for any injuries that their dog causes.

Most states take one of two approaches to dog bite liability:

• One-Bite Rule: The one-bite rule is more generous than strict liability. If the dog has no prior recorded incidents of biting and the owner isn’t aware that the dog could potentially bite another animal or person based on its breed or personality, then the owner may not be held liable. However, if the owner has some awareness or knowledge that the dog could bite based on its breed or personality, then they may still be held liable.
• Strict Liability: Under strict liability laws, the dog owner is responsible if their dog bites a person (without provocation) on public or private property. The owner can still be held liable, even if their dog has no prior record of biting and even if the owner is unaware that their dog could bite another person or animal based on its personality and breed.

Click here for a complete list of dog bite laws by state.

Keep in mind that an injured person may still try to sue for damages, and you can face legal fees even if you ultimately aren’t found responsible.

Dog Bite Insurance Claims

In the event that you’re sued, these types of claims are often handled through homeowners or renters insurance. Your insurance policy may cover legal fees and any settlement, provided the dog breed and incident are covered by your policy’s terms.

Many homeowners and renters policies exclude certain dog breeds, including Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans, from their standard protections, so be sure to check whether your policy covers your dog’s breed. You can typically request additional protection if your standard policy excludes your dog’s breed.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Bite Incident

1. Gain control of your dog, and remove them from the situation if possible.
2. Check that the injured party is safe, and seek medical help if necessary.
3. Exchange contact information with the injured party.
4. Ask for the contact information of any witnesses.
5. Suggest that the injured party contact their insurance company.
6. Contact your own insurance company.
7. Keep your dog away from the public until the matter is settled.

Above all, remain calm and respectful throughout the interaction. It’s common for people to become angry, irate, and confrontational after being bit. Don’t overreact—remember that fault and liability can be sorted out through the insurance claims process. You don’t have to assert or admit anything at the time.

Tip: There are specific phrases you should avoid saying during the incident. For example, avoid saying “I’m sorry,” as it could be misconstrued as an admission of guilt, even if you mean it innocently. You should also avoid saying “It’s my fault” or similar phrases.

Insurance Claims Process for Dog Bites

Dog bite insurance claims are initiated by the injured party. They’ll contact their own insurance company or you directly, and then their insurer or you’ll pass the claim on to your insurance company.

Your insurance company will investigate the incident, secure a statement from you, talk to any known witnesses, review medical records, and evaluate a police report if there is one. They’ll ultimately determine whether your insurance policy covers the incident. You can appeal if they initially determine it’s not.

You can expect to hear from your insurer throughout this process and can contact them with any questions or follow-up you may have.

Financial Protection

Assuming the incident and your dog’s breed are covered, you could have a substantial amount of liability protection. The claim would fall under personal liability coverage, which is often anywhere from $100,000 to $1,000,000 for homeowners policies. Renters policies may provide slightly less coverage.

Your personal liability coverage should be sufficient for most dog bite claims, which averaged $69,772 in 2024. Costs can be higher, and coverage can be lower, though. It’s helpful to talk with an insurance agent when evaluating how much personal liability coverage you should include in your policy.

Potential Consequences

Several consequences can follow once fault is determined and the insurance claim is processed. Potential outcomes include:

• Financial Liability: You would likely be responsible for your policy’s personal liability coverage deductible and any excess liability beyond your policy’s limit. Financial responsibility can include payment for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and counseling.
• Insurance Coverage: Any claim against your insurance policy will usually result in higher rates once your policy is renewed. It’s possible, although fairly unlikely, that your insurance company could drop coverage.
• Legal Requirements: The court could require muzzling in public, special licensing, fencing or other containment, or possibly even court-ordered euthanasia in extreme cases. Euthanasia is highly unlikely after just one bite.

How Allied Insurance Managers Can Help

If you’re ever in this situation, you’ll want an insurance professional on your side. Our agents at Allied Insurance Managers can help with these claims in several ways:

• Evaluate the claim’s merits and potential cost.
• Communicate with all parties involved, including the injured person and any legal teams.
• Provide a legal defense team should the claim go to litigation.
• Organize relevant information, possibly including evidence, medical information, etc.
• Handle both injury and property damage costs (within coverage limits).

After the claim, our agents can also help you find specialized dog liability insurance should you ever need coverage outside of your homeowners or renters policy.

If you think you need specialty dog liability coverage, contact us today to request a free quote.