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Mick Melocheck
Mick Melocheck
Financial Growth Partners Financial Advisor
570.294.2675

Every tomorrow is built on the decisions that we make today. It's up to each of us to make those decisions as informed as possible. We simply don't know what we don't know.

I gravitated toward this industry because it was one great way that I could truly have a positive impact on peoples lives. Having the opportunity to help individuals make better strategic decisions when it comes to protecting, growing, and maximizing their wealth is one of the best ways I can give back to my community.

I am a father to a beautiful daughter and a husband to a gorgeous, intelligent wife. We love spending time together whether that's going for hikes, going to the beach, staying fit, or simply relaxing by a campfire.

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Dog Bites Neighbor. Now What?

Insurance Read Time: 2 min

In 2023, there were 19,062 dog bite claims nationwide, totaling aggregate damages of over $1 billion, according to the Insurance Information Institute.1

For most homeowners (and renters), a standard policy generally covers any legal liability that may result from their dog biting or harming another individual. Typically, this coverage is designed to extend to places outside the home (e.g., a walk in the park), but may not include what happens inside a car.2

However, this coverage is not unlimited. There is a cap to liability coverage (check your policy for the limits of your coverage), and your policy may limit such coverage to one bite.

Canine Considerations

Many insurers may either cancel the policy or add a canine exclusion after paying such a claim, which means that you will be responsible for all damages in the event of a second bite.

Some policies exclude certain dog breeds from the outset, so be sure to review your coverage to ensure that your dog is not among the excluded breeds.

Also, be aware of a business exclusion that may not pay on claims arising from a dog bite that occurs while you are conducting business in your place of residence.

Finally, it is important to let your insurer know if your dog bites someone or is declared dangerous under local law. Failure to inform them may affect liability coverage for subsequent injuries caused by your dog.

1. III.org, April 8, 2024
2. The information in this material is not intended as legal advice. Please consult legal or insurance professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

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