animal liability

Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My!And your little dog too! The issue of animal liability for Florida homeowners has gotten to be a complicated and somewhat dangerous trap for pet owners. Traditionally, if you had a homeowners policy, the comprehensive personal liability portion would protect you in the event an animal you owned injured someone or damaged their property.Then, insurance companies began asking if you owned a dog and what breed it was. Most companies had a list of breeds that they would not insure so they would either exclude animal liability or not insure the home at all. Now, it is common for companies to exclude animal liability altogether or have a sublimit or $25,000 or some other reduced amount.This is in response to the huge increase in frequency of litigation on these claims and the subsequent growing cost.Some companies will still offer full limit coverage for these claims but their premiums are often higher and they still screen for animals that they think pose a greater than normal hazard. With the rising cost of homeowners coverage in Florida most of us have gotten very cost conscious about the policies we choose to buy, but I would urge everyone to focus on getting the coverage they really need first and only then compare prices.The old saying about “all things being equal I’d rather buy the cheaper one.” rarely holds true.The fact is that Florida homeowners policies all have so many variations that you want to make sure you understand what you are really buying and if you are going to forgo some coverage to save money, make sure you understand the risk so you can make an informed decision! ********About J.P. Perry Insurance ********* Since 1954 J. P. Perry Insurance has been serving the ever changing and sometimes challenging insurance needs of the Jacksonville area. Over 5,800 families, and businesses in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and the surrounding areas have entrusted us with their auto, homeowner and business insurance. We think saving you money on your insurance premiums for your car, home, boat, or commercial enterprise is important - but even more important is making sure that you get the best insurance protection possible. We are Jacksonville's Protector!
Continue Reading...