How to Find Out If a Dog Owner Has Insurance for a Dog Bite

A dog bite or attack is more than just a physical wound; it can leave you scared, in pain, and facing a mountain of unexpected medical bills. The emotional trauma and potential for lost wages only add to the burden. If the dog owner has insurance, it could offer much-needed financial relief. But how do you find out if they have coverage, especially when emotions are running high?

Thankfully, many dog owners have homeowners and renter insurance policies that can help cover the costs of a bite. According to the Insurance Information Institute, dog bites are one of the most common reasons people file claims on their homeowners insurance. While this is reassuring, the process of finding homeowners insurance after a dog bite can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the aftermath of the attack.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about finding homeowners insurance after a dog bite in California and how to seek compensation for your injuries. We’ll cover California’s dog bite laws, various strategies for determining if the owner has insurance, and how an experienced attorney can help you through this difficult time.

What Are California’s Dog Bite Laws?

In California, the law is firmly on your side if a dog bites you. This is due to the state’s strict liability law, which means the dog’s owner is typically responsible for your injuries, even if their dog has never shown aggression before. This rule applies whether the bite happened on public or private property, as long as the victim had the right to be there.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • It’s about the bite. This strict liability law is specifically about dog bites. If a dog hurts you in another way, like jumping on you and causing you to fall, getting compensation might be a bit trickier.
  • There are exceptions. In a few rare cases, the owner might not be responsible, like if you were trespassing or provoked the dog. Also, police and military dogs doing their jobs are exempt.
  • Time matters. You usually have two years from the date of the bite to file a lawsuit.

In most situations, the law is in your favor if you’ve been bitten. But it’s always a good idea to talk to a lawyer to understand your situation’s specifics and ensure your rights are protected.

A Dog Bit You—Now What? How Do You Find Out If the Dog Owner Has Insurance?

After a dog bite, the last thing you need is the added stress of figuring out insurance coverage. It’s natural to feel uncomfortable asking the owner directly, especially if you know them. However, understanding their insurance coverage is vital to getting the compensation you deserve.

Here are some ways you can find out about the dog owner’s insurance and how much it covers.

Have a Direct Conversation

While it might be awkward, the simplest way is to have a direct conversation with the owner. Ask if they have homeowners or renters insurance and, if so, what the policy limits are. If they’re cooperative, request a copy of the policy for your attorney to review. It’s important to determine not only if they have insurance but also if their policy specifically covers dog bite injuries.

Keep in mind the dog owner may be willing to cooperate and provide you with this information. However, they may not be fully aware of their coverage details or may be hesitant to share this information due to fear of increased premiums or policy cancellation.

Send a Formal Demand Letter

If the owner is hesitant or unresponsive, or if you’re dealing with a landlord or business, a formal demand letter from a lawyer can be very effective. This legal document often gets their attention and compels them to provide the necessary information. The demand letter should clearly state the facts of the incident, the injuries sustained, and a request for insurance information, including policy limits and coverage details.

Take Legal Action

If all else fails, filing a lawsuit opens the door to the discovery process, where the dog owner is legally required to disclose their insurance details, including policy limits. This is a more formal and potentially adversarial approach, but it can be necessary to obtain the information needed to pursue your claim.

Remember, knowing the limits of the dog owner’s insurance policy is essential for your dog bite insurance claim. It helps you understand what you might be able to recover and prevents you from settling for less than you deserve. Don’t go through this alone. An experienced dog bite attorney can guide you through these steps and help protect your rights.

Why Is It Important to Know the Insurance Coverage?

A serious dog bite can leave you with a pile of medical bills that seems impossible to climb. Most people don’t have the savings to cover those costs on their own. Additionally, many dog owners do not have the funds to pay a dog bite settlement out of pocket. That’s where the dog owner’s insurance should step in. But there’s a limit to how much they’ll pay, even if your expenses are way higher.

That’s why knowing what the dog owner’s homeowners insurance policy covers is crucial. This information gives you the power to:

  • Make smart choices about your case. You’ll understand what your claim is worth and whether a settlement offer is fair.
  • Explore all your options. If the insurance money isn’t enough, a lawyer can help you find other ways to get the compensation you deserve, like suing a landlord or property owner directly.
  • Identify additional coverage. Beyond homeowners or renters insurance, the dog owner might also have an umbrella policy or other liability coverage that could provide additional compensation.

Don’t let the insurance company control your recovery. Knowing their policy limits puts you in the driver’s seat, allowing you to make the best decisions for your future.

Need Help Getting Compensation After a Dog Bite?

A dog bite can leave lasting scars, both physical and emotional. The fear, anxiety, and stress can be insurmountable, especially when coupled with the financial burdens of medical bills and lost wages.
At Henderson Law, we understand. Attorney Michael Henderson has settled over 100 dog bite cases, helping families and victims in Santa Rosa recover from the trauma of a dog bite and secure the compensation they deserve. With more than 25 years of experience, we know the ins and outs of California dog bite law and are dedicated to fighting for your rights.

We’re not just focused on building a solid legal case. We’ll work tirelessly to assess the true value of your claim and handle all interactions with insurance companies on your behalf. If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we’re prepared to take your case to court and help ensure your voice is heard. 

Don’t let a dog bite derail your life. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re ready to listen, strategize, and fight for you.