Does My Homeowners’ Insurance Cover a Dog Bite Claim in Florida?
Understanding Dog Bite Claims in Florida
When a dog bite occurs in Florida, the first question many owners ask is whether their homeowners’ insurance will pay for damages or legal defense. Florida law, specifically Florida Statute § 767.01, imposes liability on dog owners when their dogs cause injuries. That means victims can pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering — even if the dog never bit anyone before.
For dog owners, this can quickly become stressful. A single claim can cost tens of thousands of dollars, which is why knowing whether your insurance will step in is critical.
How Homeowners’ Insurance Applies to Dog Bite Lawsuits
In many cases, a standard homeowners’ insurance policy does provide coverage for dog bite claims. This typically includes:
- Liability coverage – pays damages if you are found legally responsible
- Medical payments coverage – covers smaller medical bills without needing a lawsuit
- Defense costs – pays for a lawyer to represent you in court
But coverage is not guaranteed. Policies often have limitations or exclusions that could leave you personally responsible.
Common Insurance Policy Exclusions
Breed-Specific Exclusions
Many insurers exclude certain breeds they consider “high risk,” such as pit bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans. If your policy has a breed restriction, your insurer may deny coverage even if you’ve never had an issue with your dog.
Prior Bite History
If your dog has bitten before, some policies exclude coverage for any future incidents. Insurers may argue that you knew of the risk and failed to prevent it.
Rental Properties
If the incident occurred at a rental property, coverage may be denied unless the policy specifically extends protection to tenants or landlords. For landlords, issues of premises liability can add another layer of complexity.
What Happens If Your Policy Excludes Coverage?
Personal Responsibility
If your insurer denies coverage, you could be personally liable for the entire claim. This means damages, legal fees, and even potential judgments could come out of your own assets. Our attorneys explain more in what assets can be taken after a car accident judgment, and similar risks exist in dog bite cases.
Alternative Coverage Options
Some owners purchase umbrella insurance policies for broader liability protection. Others rely on renters’ insurance or specific canine liability coverage. Unfortunately, many people only discover these gaps after a lawsuit has already been filed.
Defending a Dog Bite Lawsuit in Florida
The Role of Your Insurance Company
If your policy does apply, your insurer is usually obligated to provide an attorney to defend you. However, insurance lawyers are often focused on minimizing payouts, not necessarily protecting your personal reputation or long-term interests.
Working With a Defense Attorney
That’s why many owners also hire a private dog bite defense attorney. An experienced lawyer can challenge liability, argue comparative negligence, or invoke defenses like the “Bad Dog” sign under Florida Statute § 767.04.
At Florida Civil Counsel, P.A., we frequently defend clients across Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami. Because our firm also handles cases for injury victims, we know the strategies plaintiffs use and how to counter them effectively.
Steps to Take If You’re Facing a Dog Bite Claim
If you’ve been notified of a claim or lawsuit:
- Report it to your insurance company immediately.
- Do not admit fault to the injured person or their lawyer.
- Request a full copy of your insurance policy and review exclusions.
- Document the incident — including witnesses, photos, and medical reports.
- Contact a defense attorney before signing any settlement or affidavit.
Our detailed guide on responding to a lawyer’s letter after an injury claim can help you understand what steps to take in those first stressful days.
Why Legal Help Is Essential
Insurance Companies Protect Themselves
Even when your insurance provides coverage, remember that insurers are motivated to save money. That can mean pressuring you to settle quickly or discouraging valid defenses.
Protecting Your Rights
Hiring your own defense lawyer ensures someone is focused solely on your best interests. Our Orlando dog bite defense attorneys have seen firsthand how early legal intervention can reduce financial exposure and sometimes even get cases dismissed.
Call Our Orlando Dog Bite Defense Attorneys
If you’re facing a dog bite claim and wondering whether your homeowners’ insurance will cover it, don’t leave your future to chance. Call Florida Civil Counsel, P.A. today. We will review your insurance policy, explain your rights, and fight to protect your finances and reputation.
Our firm is based in Orlando but represents clients across Florida — including Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami.
