Getting bit by a dog isn’t just an inconvenience. Even with a minor bite, you may still need significant medical care. Did you know that a single bite incident could cost you over $50,000?
This total might seem surprising, but it’s what pet parents need to keep in mind. As someone who has been bitten in the past or who is dealing with a bite now, you should also be aware that the costs can add up. Depending on where you were bitten and the health of the dog, you could need:
- Rabies vaccinations
- Antibiotics
- Surgery to clean the wound
- Plastic surgery
- Compensation for lost wages
The Insurance Information Institute’s latest estimate shows that an average dog bite claim is around $44,760. On top of that, the liability claims from dog bites and dog-related injuries jumped to around $797 million in 2019, showing just how often these furry companions do cause trouble for the victims and their own owners.
Will a dog’s owner have to cover the cost of care after a bite?
The good news is that homeowners’ insurance should provide coverage if you’re bitten by another person’s dog. Their coverage should be able to provide you with the financial support you need to cover hospital bills, lost wages from missing work and other financial losses.
What happens if they don’t have insurance on the pet?
If they don’t have insurance, you may still be able to sue to have them cover your medical care and other losses. Every situation is going to be a little bit different, so you may want to look into your legal options if that is the case.
