Man’s Best Friend can be costly With some 62 million dogs living in American households today, it’s easy to see why our canine companions are called “man’s best friend.” But even though dogs are seen first and foremost as beloved family members, they also can be the source of significant injury and expense.
Every year, approximately 4.7 million cases of dogs biting humans are reported in the United States — 800,000 of them requiring medical attention, and a few resulting in death. In 2007, 33 dog-bite injuries resulted in fatalities, mostly of children.
You might be surprised to find that dog-bite claims account for one-third of all liability claims on Homeowners policies. According to the Insurance Information Institute, dog bites cost insurance companies $356.2 million in 2007, up 10.5 percent from the previous year.
Because this can expose you to large liability risks, I encourage you to be a responsible dog owner and keep animals locked behind a gated fence or indoors at all times. When walking your dog, use a leash and always comply with local leash laws.
Children are generally the victims of dog bites, so always supervise interaction between children and dogs. Boys between the ages of 5 and 9 are especially at risk. Be careful even if you know the dog, because 77 percent of biting dogs are familiar and belong to the victim’s family or friend. Also, be sure to keep your child’s face away from the dog, since 75 percent of all child dog bites are to the face.
To help avoid dog bites:
• Always get the owner’s permission before petting a dog.
• Avoid unfamiliar dogs.
• Never approach a dog from the rear.
• Don’t interrupt a dog while it’s eating.
• Never remove a toy from a dog’s mouth.
• Steer clear of fighting, angry or agitated dogs.
Finally, remember that dog bites can come from your own pets. Below are steps to take in case your animal injures someone:
• Get prompt medical attention for the injured person.
• Exchange contact information with the injured person.
• Assure the person that someone from Farmers will contact them.
• Report the claim to Farmers, and provide information about the incident, including the victim’s name and contact information.
• Report the dog bite to the local animal control center.
Written in conjunction with John Plunkett, Farmers Insurance Publications Specialist
