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​As we all prepare for the upcoming atmospheric event, we strongly encourage you to please prepare your home and your family. Being prepared is crucial to keeping our families safe. Below you will find a quick guide on how to prepare yourself for an upcoming storm or hurricane.  

Picture: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/

At Deer Insurance Agency, we strongly encourage all our clients to please take pictures and videos of their home inside and outside. After you take those pictures, we recommend you email them to yourself and any other trusted person. This way, in the worst case scenario that you lose your cell phone, you still have an inventory of your home in your email. When you send the pictures and videos to your email, you can even be specific about the items in the picture or just keep it generic. This is one of our biggest recommedations everytime a storm or hurricane approaches our beautiful Sunshine State.

Preparing for a hurricane involves several steps to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your property. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare:

1. Stay Informed:

  • Monitor local news, weather forecasts, and official updates from meteorological agencies.
  • Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications through text messages or apps.

2. Create an Emergency Plan:

  • Develop a family emergency plan detailing where to go, how to communicate, and what to do in different scenarios.
  • Identify evacuation routes and shelters in your area.

3. Assemble an Emergency Kit:

  • Non-perishable food (enough for at least three days)
  • Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days)
  • Medications and a first aid kit
  • Flashlights, batteries, and a battery-operated weather radio
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Important documents (ID, insurance papers, medical records) in waterproof containers
  • Cash
  • Blankets and clothing
  • Cell phone charger and portable power bank

4. Secure Your Home:

  • Trim trees and shrubs to minimize potential debris during the storm.
  • Reinforce windows and doors, or install storm shutters.
  • Secure or store outdoor furniture, equipment, and loose items.
  • Clear gutters and drains to prevent flooding.

5. Prepare Your Car:

  • Fill your car’s gas tank.
  • Check tires, brakes, and fluid levels.
  • Keep an emergency kit in your car, including water, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, and basic tools.

6. Protect Important Documents:

  • Make digital copies of important documents and store them securely in the cloud or on an external drive.
  • Place physical copies in a waterproof container within your emergency kit.

7. Evacuation Planning:

  • Follow local authorities’ guidance regarding evacuation orders.
  • Pack your emergency kit and essential items if you need to evacuate.
  • Inform someone outside the affected area about your evacuation plans.

8. Communication:

  • Keep a charged cell phone and a backup charger.
  • Agree on a communication plan with family and friends to check in and share updates.

9. Pet and Livestock Preparedness:

  • If you have pets, prepare a kit for them with food, water, medication, and documents.
  • Identify pet-friendly shelters or accommodations in case of evacuation.

10. Stay Informed During the Storm:

  • Listen to weather updates and follow instructions from local authorities.
  • Stay indoors away from windows and doors.
  • If flooding is a concern, move to higher ground.

11. After the Hurricane:

  • Wait for official clearance before returning home.
  • Be cautious of hazards such as downed power lines and flooding.
  • Assess and document any damage for insurance purposes.
  • Contact family and friends to let them know you’re safe.

Please remember that preparation is key to staying safe during a hurricane. Start planning well in advance and stay informed throughout the event. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with your community’s emergency procedures and resources.

If you need to file a claim on your homeowners insurance or rental property insurance, it is important that you contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Most carriers will have their claims contact numbers and procedures online so make sure you reach out them as soon as you can.

It is important to stay safe and be responsible. And remember, at Deer Insurance Agency, you are DEER to our HEART!

One of the main questions we get everyday is, what is the difference between a homeowners insurance and a rental property insurance? We immediately reply with a counter question, are you going to live in your home or are you going to rent it long term? Depending on the answer, we’ll provide you with a solution.

There’s no question insurance terminology can get complicated, but understanding the main differences between these two policies is important to have the right insurance policy to protect your asset.

Here’s a quick breakdown of each:

Homeowners Insurance

Homeowners insurance is designed to protect individuals who own and reside in their primary residence. It provides coverage for both the structure of the home and personal belongings in case of damage or loss due to covered events, such as fire, theft, vandalism, wind, or certain natural disasters. Additionally, homeowners insurance also includes liability coverage, which protects the homeowner if someone is injured on their property and files a lawsuit.

Rental Property Insurance

Rental property insurance, also known as landlord insurance or dwelling fire insurance, is specifically designed for property owners who rent out their properties to tenants. This type of insurance provides coverage for the physical structure of the rental property, including the building itself, as well as any personal property owned by the landlord and used for maintenance or repair purposes. Rental property insurance also includes liability coverage to protect the landlord from liability claims arising from injuries or property damage that occur on the rental property.

Key Differences:

  • Coverage: Homeowners insurance covers the primary residence of the homeowner and their personal belongings, while rental property insurance covers the structure of the rental property and the landlord’s personal property used for maintenance.
  • Liability Coverage: Homeowners insurance typically includes liability coverage for the homeowner, while rental property insurance includes liability coverage for the landlord.
  • Rental Income Protection: Rental property insurance often includes coverage for loss of rental income if the property becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, such as a fire or a storm, while homeowners insurance generally does not provide this coverage.

If you own a home that you live in, you would need homeowners insurance. If you own a property that you rent out to tenants, you would need rental property insurance. It’s essential to have the appropriate insurance coverage for your specific situation to ensure you are adequately protected.

Remember, it is important to assess your specific needs, financial situation, and long-term goals before purchasing insurance. At Deer Insurance Agency we guide you through this process and help you get the policy that works best for you and your family. Start your quote process HERE and provide us with the information we need to get you a complete and honest quote for you and your family.

Deer Insurance Agency, LLC is an independent insurance agency licensed in the states of Florida, South Carolina, and Maryland. If you live in any of the States we provide insurance solutions and need an insurance program, please email us at hello@deerinsurance.com. We’ll be more than happy to help you.

At Deer Insurance Agency, you are DEER to our HEART!

In Florida, most carriers are now requiring a 4 Point Inspection Report and a Wind Mitigation Report to quote and bind your Homeowners Insurance Policy. The reason being is that their underwriting guidelines keep getting stricter due to the lack of reinsurance availability. Even though new construction homes do not require these reports, it is highly recommended that all properties eight years and older get these reports to get a complete and honest quote on their home. Below, we will give you a brief explanation of what these reports are for.

4 Point Inspection

A 4-point inspection is a specialized assessment performed by licensed home inspectors or insurance companies. It focuses on four key areas of a residential property: the roof, electrical system, plumbing system, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. The purpose of a 4-point inspection is to evaluate the condition and age of these essential components. This inspection is often required by insurance companies when issuing or renewing a homeowner’s insurance policy for an older home, typically 20 years or older. Nowadays, some insurance companies are requiring this report for homes 10 years or older. This inspection helps insurance companies assess the risk associated with these older systems and determine coverage eligibility.

Wind Mitigation

In Florida, a wind mitigation report is a document that assesses the structural features and construction of a residential property regarding its ability to withstand wind damage during severe weather events, particularly hurricanes. The report is conducted by a qualified inspector or roofing company.

The purpose of a wind mitigation report is to identify specific features and factors that may reduce the risk of wind damage to the property. This includes elements such as the roof shape, construction materials, roof-to-wall connections, window and door protection, and the presence of certain additional protective measures like hurricane shutters.

The information in the wind mitigation report is used by insurance companies to determine the potential risk associated with a particular property. Homeowners who have a wind mitigation report showing favorable features and improvements may be eligible for insurance premium discounts or other incentives provided by insurance companies.

It’s worth noting that wind mitigation reports are particularly relevant in Florida due to the state’s vulnerability to hurricanes and strong winds. These reports help homeowners take steps to reinforce their homes and make them more resilient to severe weather conditions.

Remember, when looking for Homeowners or Rental Property Insurance in Florida, it is important to assess your specific needs to have the right insurance program. At Deer Insurance Agency we guide you through this process and help you get the policy that works best for you and your family. Start your quote process HERE and provide us with the information we need to prepare you a complete and honest quote.

Deer Insurance Agency, LLC is an independent insurance agency licensed in the States of Florida, South Carolina, and Maryland. If you live in any of the States we provide insurance solutions and need an insurance program, please email us at hello@deerinsurance.com. We are always happy to help you.

At Deer Insurance Agency, you are DEER to our HEART!

There’s no question that auto insurance in Florida keeps getting more and more expensive. Everyday we get calls asking the reason why, and even though these are some of the reasons, there are many other reasons why auto insurance in Florida tends to be more expensive compared to other states.

Here are some factors that contribute to the higher insurance rates in Florida:

  1. High population density: Florida has a large population, and densely populated areas often experience more traffic congestion and a higher frequency of accidents. With more accidents occurring, insurance companies have to pay out more in claims, leading to higher premiums for policyholders.
  2. Frequent severe weather events: Florida is prone to hurricanes, tropical storms, and heavy rain, which can result in significant damage to vehicles. Insurance companies take into account the higher risk of weather-related incidents when setting rates for comprehensive coverage.
  3. No-fault insurance system: Florida operates under a “no-fault” insurance system, which requires drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. This coverage pays for medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. The requirement for PIP coverage can contribute to higher insurance premiums.
  4. Fraudulent claims: Florida has experienced a significant number of fraudulent insurance claims, including staged accidents and inflated medical bills. Insurance companies factor in the increased risk of fraudulent activity when setting rates, which can contribute to higher premiums for all policyholders.
  5. Expensive medical costs: Medical costs in Florida tend to be higher compared to other states, and these costs are factored into the insurance premiums. Since PIP coverage is mandatory, insurers must consider the potential costs of medical treatments when determining rates.

Remember, it is important to assess your specific needs, financial situation, and long-term goals before purchasing auto insurance. At Deer Insurance Agency we guide you through this process and help you get the policy that works best for you and your family. Start your quote process HERE and provide us with the information we need to provide you with a complete and honest quote for you and your family.

Deer Insurance Agency, LLC is an independent insurance agency licensed in the states of Florida, South Carolina, and Maryland. If you live in any of the States we provide insurance solutions and need an insurance program, please email us at hello@deerinsurance.com. We’ll be more than happy to help you.

At Deer Insurance Agency, you are DEER to our HEART!

Life insurance is a financial product that provides financial protection to your loved ones in the event of your death. While the topic of death may not be pleasant to think about, life insurance can offer peace of mind and serve as a crucial safety net for your family’s future.

Here are some reasons why people choose to buy life insurance:

  1. Income Replacement: If you are the primary earner in your family, your sudden absence could leave your dependents in a financially difficult situation. Life insurance can replace lost income and ensure that your loved ones can maintain their standard of living, pay for everyday expenses, and cover long-term financial obligations such as mortgage payments, education expenses, and debts.
  2. Debt Repayment: If you have outstanding debts such as a mortgage, car loans, or credit card debt, your life insurance policy can help settle these financial obligations after your passing. This prevents your family from being burdened with debt and gives them a fresh start.
  3. Funeral and Final Expenses: Funerals and associated costs can be expensive. Life insurance can cover funeral expenses, burial or cremation costs, and other final expenses, relieving your family of these financial burdens during an already difficult time.
  4. Education Funding: If you have children or dependents who are planning to pursue higher education, life insurance can provide funds to support their educational goals even if you’re not there to provide for them.
  5. Estate Planning: Life insurance can be an effective tool for estate planning. It helps to ensure that your heirs receive an inheritance, pay estate taxes, or settle any estate-related expenses.
  6. Business Continuity: If you are a business owner, life insurance can be used as a tool to protect your business and provide financial support in case of your death. It can help with business succession planning, covering debts or providing funds to buy out your share of the business from your heirs.
  7. Supplement Retirement Savings: Some life insurance policies, such as permanent life insurance, offer a cash value component that can grow over time. These policies can be used as a long-term savings vehicle or a source of supplemental income during retirement.

It’s important to assess your specific needs, financial situation, and long-term goals before purchasing life insurance. At Deer Insurance Agency we guide you through this process and help you get the policy that works best for you and your family. Start your quote process HERE and quote your life insurance with multiple carriers in just seconds. Yes, seconds!

Deer Insurance Agency, LLC is an independent insurance agency licensed in the states of Florida, South Carolina, and Maryland. If you live in any of the States we provide insurance solutions and need life insurance, we’ll be more than happy to help.

At Deer Insurance Agency, you are DEER to our HEART!

On Wednesday December 14, 2022 Florida Governor, Ron DeSantis, signed Senate Bill 2A, Property Insurance, at the second special session of this year designed to “repair” the property insurance market in Florida. This was a HISTORIC reform for all Floridians who have been struggling with an unstable insurance market driven by many “unnecessary” lawsuits and catastrophic events that led to high record premiums.

It is unthinkable how to many homeowners the average annual premiums have more than triple in the last three years. The insurance industry has seen underwriting losses of approximately $2 billion in the last couple of years. Even worst, we have seen carriers go under while others decided to close shop and leave our beautiful Sunshine State.

Finally, there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Even though this new Bill doesn’t mean that everything will be perfect tomorrow, it is definitely some light at the end of a very dark tunnel. Below we list some of the most important items the Bill corrected that will help stabilize the Homeowners and Property Insurance Market.

Here are some of the most important provisions:

  • One-Way Attorney Fees: it eliminates one-way attorney fees in suits arising in residential and commercial property insurance.
  • Assignment of Benefits (AOB): it prohibits AOB contracts of residential and commercial property insurance policies issued on or after January 1, 2023.
  • Bad Faith: requires a breach of contract before a policyholder can sue a property insurer for settlement-related bad faith.
  • Offer of Judgment – makes attorney fees available for the prevailing party in offers of judgment (proposals for settlement).
  • Arbitration: allows carriers to include mandatory binding arbitration in their policies.
  • Claims Handling: it reduces from 90 days to 60 days the time insurance companies have to pay or deny a claim, unless extended by regulators; and reduce from 14 days to 7 days the time a carrier has to review and acknowledge a claim communication and begin an investigation, along with other time requirement changes.
  • Claim Filing: it reduced the deadlines for policyholders to report a claim from 2 years to 1 year for a new or reopened claim, and from 3 years to 18 months for a supplemental claim.
  • Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR): allows the Florida OIR to withdraw approval of policies with an appraisal clause for companies that routinely invoke it; enhances OIR’s ability to do market conduct examinations of property insurers after a hurricane, including examinations of managing general agents; allows OIR to discipline insurers for abuse of the appraisal process; adds information regarding the use of appraisal to the list of information that a property insurer must include in its quarterly reports to OIR.

These are just some of the new changes that will impact the insurance industry in 2023 and beyond. As an Independent Insurance Agency that provides property insurance solutions to lots of customers across the State of Florida, we can say this is a big WIN for all of us. The insurance marketplace needed to be corrected because we were heading down a very scary rabbit hole. Hopefully, this will bring many more carriers to our Sunshine State and make our market more competitive and more accessible.

Deer Insurance Agency is an independent insurance agency located in Jacksonville, Florida. We provide homeowners, flood, auto, and commercial insurance solutions throughout the State of Florida.

My only daughter, my little miracle, has asked me many times what I want for Mother’s Day. Taking a nap or to sleep has always come to mind when thinking about her question. I have told her “I don’t know” but deep down I really knew. I just didn’t have the heart to tell her in case something went wrong.

What I really wanted was to close on the house that we wanted for years. The house we all love and that has so much sentimental value to us. I have wanted that for a long time. For anniversary, birthday, Christmas, Three Kings Day, valentines and everything else in between. I had faith God was guiding us during the whole process and He certainly did. We learned, we grew, and together as a family we embarked on a journey that led us to finally own the house. With God’s help and blessings we were able to buy it. That just happened, before this Mother’s Day, and it was the most amazing gift. A nap would also be fine just in case she (or my husband) read this, lol.

I wish all mothers health, life, peace, joy, abundance, wholeness, security, sleep/rest time and much, much love. I pray God blesses you all and guides you through every step of your journey. I wish you are granted what your heart desires and dreams. I really wish you all the best!

At Deer Insurance Agency we wish all the mothers of the world a Happy Mother’s Day! 

May God bless you all!

Some of the basics

In the beautiful sunshine state any vehicle with a current Florida registration must be insured with a Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL) automobile insurance coverage. The requirements are a minimum of $10,000 in PIP and a minimum of $10,000 in PDL. It is mandated that PIP covers 80% of all necessary and reasonable medical expenses up to $10,000 resulting from a covered injury, no matter who caused the car accident. On the other hand, PDL coverage pays for damage to another person’s property caused by you or someone else driving your insured vehicle. 

If you want to adventure into the wondrous world of auto insurance in Florida you can check out the information on Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).

So, are those minimum enough?

Well, as it happens with other things in life, the minimum may not be enough but it is way better than nothing. Also, it is required by law, so it is definitely necessary to comply. 

When in doubt, I recommend you do something about it. Be proactive. Be a protector. Knowing about other optional insurance coverages can help you make an informed decision that better protects your assets and gives you peace of mind. 

Optional auto insurance coverages related to PIP and PDL

Bodily injury liability (BIL): It is not required but it can be a very helpful coverage. It pays for injury or death to others when you are at fault in a car accident. This coverage will pay for the other party’s medical expenses related to the car accident you were at fault.

For example (and I am really hoping it does not happen to you) say you are at fault in an automobile accident and the other driver is injured.  The other driver’s PIP coverage covers his medical bills up to the limit of the coverage. Then, the other driver’s insurer decides to subrogate the medical claims from you because you were at fault for the accident. If you do not have BIL coverage you have to pay for that out of pocket. Instead, if you have BIL, that coverage will reimburse the other driver’s insurance company up to the limit you selected. 

Extended PIP: This is a supplemental coverage that extends medical benefits for you and your family members. The basic PIP covers up to 80% of your medical expenses, while the extended PIP covers the rest (so you will be covered 100%). However, all of those medical expenses are subject to the $10,000 maximum limit coverage. You can decide whether to include your family members in this coverage or not. Also, the extended PIP can provide an additional income-loss benefit. 

Let us avoid penalties

It is  important to maintain the required insurance coverage throughout the registration period or your driving privilege and license plate may be suspended for up to three years. The best practice is to comply with the FLHSMV and: “Turn in your license plate at your nearest driver license office and motor vehicle service center or Tax Collector’s office BEFORE canceling your insurance to avoid suspension and reinstatement fees”. Please note that failure to maintain the required insurance coverage may result in the suspension of your driver license/registration and a requirement to pay a reinstatement fee of up to $500. We really want to avoid that! On top of that, the insurance carriers can charge you an additional premium for not maintaining continuous coverage on your vehicle insurance.

Our recommendation

We like to encourage our readers, prospects and clients to protect themselves, their assets, and be best prepared with the insurance coverage that is right for them. We believe that with life’s uncertainties, and the risk of losing important things, we should protect our hard-earned assets. 

With Deer Insurance Agency by your side, you can have the peace of mind, confidence, and trust that your insurance needs are well served and protected. Email us at hello@deerinsurance.com for a free quote customized just for you. 

Oftentimes, these two-insurance coverages are thought to be the same coverage.  In reality, each one covers different types of events and they complement each other very well. They are very useful coverages to have in an auto insurance policy. In our beautiful Sunshine State we definitely recommend our customers to have both of them.

Collision Coverage

Under Collision coverage, the insurance company pays for damages if your vehicle overturns or if it collides with another vehicle or object. Collision coverage involves a “deductible” amount you select when you purchase your policy. This deductible, typically $250 or $500, will be deducted from the payment the insurance company will make to repair your damaged vehicle in the event it exceeds the deductible amount. 

How does this Collision Coverage works? 

Imagine you are involved in a car crash that results in $9,500 worth of repairs to your vehicle (hopefully it will never happen) and you have a $500 deductible. The insurance company will pay $9,000 after subtracting your deductible of $500.  

Collision coverage can help you recover for your damages regardless of the other party’s insurance status or even if you were at-fault for the accident. Sadly, some Floridians drive without insurance coverage so having Collision coverage is a good way to protect your vehicle.

Comprehensive Coverage

Under Comprehensive coverage, the insurance company pays for damages caused by an event other than a car collision, such as fire, theft, vandalism, hail, or flood damage. Comprehensive coverage could also cover damages from when you hit an animal while driving. Additionally, if your car is stolen, Comprehensive coverage could cover the cost of a rental vehicle (subject to a daily limit). Like Collision coverage, a deductible usually applies.

It’s important to notice that Comprehensive coverage it’s not the same thing as full coverage. 

Statistics

According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle, in 2020, we have so far 242,998 crashes in our State, 2,290 fatalities from all crashes, and 150,940 injuries from all crashes.  This year, because of the pandemic, some may say we haven’t been driving as much as other years.  Still, those numbers reflect the sad reality that accidents happen and it is good to be as protected as one can be.

auto insurance

Florida

 

Our Recommendation

We like to encourage our prospects and clients to protect themselves, their assets, and be best prepared with the insurance coverage that is right for them. 

We really believe that with life’s uncertainties, and the risk of losing important things, we should protect our hard-earned assets. With Deer Insurance Agency by your side, you can have the peace of mind, confidence, and trust that your insurance needs are well served and protected. Email us at hello@deerinsurance.com for a free quote customized just for you. 

 

For most of us, our pets are family members. We love them. We treasure our time with them. We are happier because of them. We know they wouldn’t harm anyone until they do.

Animal Liability Insurance Coverage

Animal Liability insurance offers coverage for bodily injury and property damages caused by some of your loving pets to a person who doesn’t reside in your home. Some homeowners insurance policies include Animal Liability Insurance Coverage.  Others don’t.  If needed, you can add this coverage to your home insurance policy by an endorsement or you can buy it as a separate insurance policy. This insurance coverage can help you pay medical expenses related to the injury or damages your pet caused. It will provide coverage up to the policy limits. For example, a homeowners insurance policy can give you the option to add an Animal Liability coverage sublimit of $100,000.

We encourage pet owners to research if they already have this coverage, if it’s the right fit for them, or if they need to get one. It is important you know the details of your coverage as it varies between insurance companies.  

Which pets are covered?

homeowners insurance

Sadly, not all pets are covered. Depending on your homeowners insurance company, the Animal Liability Insurance Coverage won’t covered:

  1. Animals owned or kept at the time of the application and not disclosed on the application;
  2. Any  animal with  a  prior  history  of  bites  or attacks  or  that  caused “bodily  injury” or “property damage” to any person property or animal, as established through insurance claims  records,  or  through the  records of local   public   safety,   law   enforcement or other similar regulatory agency;
  3. Any  dogs  of  the  following  breeds  or  any mixture  that  includes  any  of  the  following breeds:

(a) Akita;

(b) American Pit Bull Terrier;

(c) American Staffordshire Terrier;

(d) Catahoula Leopard;

(e) Chow;

(f) Doberman Pinscher;

(g) German Shepherd;

(h) Husky;

(i) Malamute;

(j) Pit Bull;

(k) Presa Canario;

(l) Rottweiler;

(m) Staffordshire Bull Terrier; or

(n) Wolf;

Other animals that are NOT covered are: any reptiles or amphibians; any exotic or non-domestic animals; and any livestock, farm animals, horses, or other saddle animals.

About our Beloved Dogs

Below are some statistics about dog bites that you can view on the Florida Health website.  You should also check out their Tips for Dog Owners and Safety Tips for Adults and Children.

DID YOU KNOW

  • Children between 1 and 9 years of age are at the highest risk for dog bites, with boys in this age group at a higher risk than girls?
  • Children under 10 years of age are more likely to be bitten on the head or neck than other age groups?
  • Each year, an average of 2 Floridians die from injuries due to dog bites?
  • Each year, over 600 Floridians are hospitalized due to injuries from dog bites?

An in-depth analysis of 799 dog bites that were reported to Florida Department of Health in Bay County, Florida from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010 found that:

  • Children less than 6 years old and boys from 6–14 years of age were the two groups at greatest risk of being bitten by a dog. 
  • Most dog bites (86 percent) which involved children less than 6 years old were from dogs known to the family, and more than half occurred in the home.
  • The cause of bites of over one third (39 percent) of children less than 6 years old was unknown, suggesting some young children may have been unsupervised when in contact with dogs.
  • More than half of dog bites involving persons 15 years and older occurred when the victim attempted to break up a dog fight. These incidents occurred somewhat more frequently in the home or on the dog owner’s property (55 percent) but also occurred frequently off the property. 
  • Across all age groups, the most common cause of dog bites (26 percent) was inappropriate behavior management (interacting with the dog while it was eating food, chewing on a toy, roughhousing, or touching or moving the dog against its will). These types of bites occurred most frequently in the dog owner’s home or on their property (71 percent of cases). 
  • Another common cause of dog bites was protective behavior (24 percent of cases), which occurred regularly both on and off the dog owner’s property. 
  • Dogs that were off their owner’s property and off-leash were the source of approximately one third (32 percent) of all dog bites reported, and most (89 percent) involved dogs unknown to the victim.

Data extracted from: Matthias J, M Templin, MM Jordan, D Stanek. Cause, setting and ownership analysis of dog bites in Bay County, Florida from 2009 to 2010. Zoonoses and Public Health. published on-line 8 Apr 2014: DOI: 10.1111/zph.12115.

Our Recommendation

In 2019, the average cost per claim of a dog bite (Nationwide) was $44,760.00. This is NO small amount.  The good thing is, you can protect yourself, your assets, and be prepared just by letting us review your homeowners policy to verify that you have the Animal Liability Insurance Coverage. Keep in mind, this is completely FREE and we do it because we like helping others to be properly insured.     

With life’s uncertainties and the risk of losing important things, we should protect our hard-earned assets. With Deer Insurance Agency by your side, you can have the peace of mind, confidence, and trust that your insurance needs are well served and protected. Email us at hello@deerinsurance.com for a free customized quote for you.