The homeowner's insurance refused to take a claim for a dog bite; they said that they dont cover that. Whats the next step?

I'd encourage you to seek the advice of a personal injury attorney who can determine whether the homeowners policy does preclude such claims, whether there might be other insurance available & otherwise fully evaluate the claim.

Without reviewing the policy it is tough to say. I find it very doubtful that a homeowner's policy doesn't cover a dog bite, however, some breeds can be excluded. You need to see the policy to be sure. If the insurance won't cover the claim, the homeowner is still liable if the dog has vicious propensities. You need an attorney to get the policy and analyze it. I doubt he homeowner's insurance carrier will willingly provide it but, maybe they will. Good luck.

You should get an attorney to review the policy. If there is no coverage, you can sue the homeowner if they have anything to satisfy judgment.

Unfortunately most homeowner policies in Florida do not include dog bite coverage. I agree with the other lawyers, never believe the insurance company’s denial. If the bite is serious enough seek out a lawyer who can evaluate both your injury and the likelihood of collecting from the homeowner. Florida makes it hard to collect from someone’s personal assets, so unless the person has significant assets, the lawyer may well advise you it will not be economically feasible to pursue a claim; but consultations are almost always free, so might as well find a qualified lawyer in your area and see what they recommend. Good luck.

The homeowner insurance policies that do cover dog bites tend to exclude coverage for "dangerous dogs" which usually include pit bulls and rottweilers. Again, I would need to read the policy to be sure.

1/3 of all homeowners claims are paid to dog bite victims. I wouldn't believe the homeowner or the insurance company. Retain a personal injury lawyer to find out whether or not there truly is insurance coverage.

I agree with the earliier comments. Historically, Homeowner's insurance did cover dogbites. However , after Hurricane Andrew rates increased and it seemed like in an effort to keep base rates down, dogbites were excluded under the main policy . Dogowners then had to pay extra for a "rider" to cover dogbites.

It is not that they "say they don't cover dog bites". You must obtain a copy of the full policy and have a lawyer of your choice review it with you to determine if the policy actually covers dog bites. Cannot just go with what the insurer says.

First, I concur with my colleagues that you should retain a top plaintiff's lawyer who will get a copy of the policy per the Florida insurance disclosure statute, section 627.4137. Second, even if there is a specific exclusion for dog bites, almost every homeowners policy includes "medical payments" coverage that is extended for any injury on the premises, irrespective of fault. I am very sorry to hear about your little girl's injury. Do not lose hope and go forward as discussed. Good luck

You should obtain needed medical care and treatment immediately and follow the doctor's advice. Do not give any statement to the adverse party or insurance company nor grant them access to any medical records. Photograph the injuries and the damage done to any property. Contact a personal injury attorney in your area as soon as possible so that you can protect your rights. You may also find it helpful to review the Legal Guides I have published on .com dealing with many of the issues you are now facing. Legal Disclaimer: If this information has been helpful, please indicate below. Mr. Lundeen is licensed to practice law in Florida and Vermont. The response herein is not legal advice and does not create an attorney/client relationship. The response is in the form of legal education and is intended to provide general information about the matter within the question. Oftentimes the question does not include significant and important facts and timelines that, if known, could significantly change the reply and make it unsuitable. Mr. Lundeen strongly advises the questioner to confer with an attorney in your state in order to ensure proper advice is received.