Your small Shih Tzu or French Bulldog may be friendly and lovable, but even the gentlest pets can bite when they feel anxious or protective. If your dog suddenly snaps and injures a visiting child, you may find yourself facing unexpected medical bills and a complicated legal situation.
Homeowners and renters insurance may not always provide sufficient liability coverage for a significant dog-bite claim. That is where umbrella insurance becomes valuable, since it can extend your protection beyond the limits of your primary policy.
Texas Takes Dog Bites Seriously
Texas follows the one-bite rule. This means that if your dog has bitten someone in the past or has a documented history of aggressive behavior, you can be held strictly liable for injuries it causes.
Even if your dog has never bitten anyone before, you may still face a negligence claim if you fail to control your pet. Once a dog is legally classified as dangerous, Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822 requires that you carry liability insurance on the dog.
Why Your Standard Policy Might Not Be Enough
Most homeowners and renters insurance policies in Texas include liability coverage for dog bites, but the limits may not be high enough to cover serious incidents. At AlphaSure Affordable Insurance Services, we have seen dog bite claims exceed primary policy limits, leaving owners responsible for the remaining costs.
Your dog may never bite again, but a single incident can lead to significant legal and financial consequences if the claim exceeds your policy limits.
How Umbrella Insurance Helps
Umbrella insurance provides additional liability protection once you reach the limit on your homeowners or renters insurance. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, umbrella insurance may help cover:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Lawsuit expenses
Umbrella insurance can also provide coverage if your dog bites someone away from your property, which is an important consideration for families who bring their pets to parks, trails, or public spaces.
Be Proactive and Add Umbrella Coverage Before You Need It
Most family dogs are well-behaved and may never show signs of dangerous aggression. However, dogs are protective of their families and may react instinctively if they think someone is a threat. Even a single bite can lead to costly consequences.
The best way to protect yourself and others is to review your coverage before an incident happens. AlphaSure Affordable Insurance Services can help you determine whether umbrella insurance is a good fit for your household.