Do I need insurance for my dog?
If you think about it, animals share a common trait with cars, boats, and houses—when tragedy strikes a lack of liability insurance in these areas can be life-altering.
And not in the “I won $27.3 million in the lottery” way. Rather, the “I need lawsuit protection so I don’t lose everything I own” type of way.
If you’re asking yourself, “do I really need animal insurance?” It’s easier to avoid the need because no one plans on their Fidos, Skippys, and Rexes striking an unsuspecting person.
But unfortunately, optimism doesn’t change reality — something a Florida family is regretfully aware of after a tragic incident earlier this month.
The owners of this Jack Russell terrier and English bulldog mix didn’t plan on their pet attacking a helpless guest. But it happened.
There are many possible contributing factors when animals strike, but the reasons aren’t all that important, are they? The point is that even seemingly small bites can lead to major health complications — and, as a result, huge lawsuits in our extremely litigious culture.
Proof? Dogs bite about 4.7 million people annually, and last year close to $479 million was awarded in dog bite claims according to the Insurance Information Institute.
The need for animal liability insurance probably has never been greater. Those who start learning about it now and find the right plan soon rather than later might just avoid a life-shattering situation.
Authored by Rick J. Lindsey, President, Chairman, and CEO of XINSURANCE
Rick J. Lindsey hails from Salt Lake City, Utah. He began working in the mailroom of his father’s Salt Lake City insurance firm, getting his introduction to the business that became his lifelong career. Rick J. Lindsey quickly rose through the ranks while working in nearly every imaginable insurance industry job. As an entrepreneur, specialty lines underwriter, claims specialist, risk manager, and a licensed surplus lines broker, Rick J. Lindsey is highly skilled in all levels of leadership and execution. As he progressed on his career path, Rick J. Lindsey discovered an urgent need for insurers willing to write policies for high-risk individuals and businesses. He was frequently frustrated that he could not provide the liability protection these entities desperately needed to safeguard their assets. He also formed the belief that insurance companies acted too quickly to settle frivolous claims. Rick J. Lindsey decided to try a different approach. He started an insurance company and became the newly formed entity’s CEO. This opportunity has enabled Rick J. Lindsey to fill a void in the market and provide a valuable service to businesses, individuals, and insurance agents who write high-risk business. XINSURANCE also specializes in helping individuals and businesses who live a lifestyle or participate in activities that make them difficult for traditional carriers to insure. If you’ve been denied, non-renewed, or canceled coverage, don’t give up quite yet. Chances are XINSURANCE can help.
