Dog Bites on the Rise in California, Texas, and Ohio » Live Insurance News

Why Everyone Needs Safety Tips and Insurance

Dog bite incidents are surging in some states. California led 2024 with 701 incidents. Texas followed with 438, and Ohio not far behind at 350. Those numbers aren’t just data points. They represent real victims, lawsuits, and hefty medical bills.

Dog bites can happen to anyone. Even the sweetest family dog can react unpredictably. That’s why dog owners and everyone else should pay attention to safety advice.

Tips to Stay Safe

Professional trainers recommend a few straightforward ways to avoid dog attacks.

• Stay calm. Dogs can sense your energy.
• Don’t run. Instinct takes over, and the chase is on.
• Carry a barrier like a bag or jacket. Use it if needed.
• Teach kids. Tell them never to approach unfamiliar dogs.

These steps may feel basic—but they work. They could help prevent a scary situation from escalating into a dangerous one.

For Renters, the Risks Are Higher

Here’s what a lot of people don’t realize. If your dog bites someone, it’s not just a painful incident. It can also cost you. A lot. You could be sued for medical expenses, lost wages, even emotional suffering.

Think you’re off the hook because you rent? Think again. Lawsuits can attach to future earnings. Even two decades from now.

This is why renters insurance is a must. It provides liability coverage in case someone sues you. And here’s the best part. Some policies can cost as little as $15 a month.

What’s even better? Many insurers offer discounts if you bundle renters insurance with your auto policy. You might not even notice the extra cost.

California Renters Are Falling Behind

But here’s the problem. Only 26.2% of renters in California have renters insurance. That’s truly alarming in a state with millions of dog owners. Between wildfires, earthquakes, and now increasing dog bite incidents, renters remain exposed to significant risks.

The other 74%? They’re gambling. One bite. One lawsuit. That’s all it takes to wreck years of financial stability.

In Texas, 27.6% of renters have renters insurance, slightly higher than California’s 26.2% and national trends suggest Ohio is similar to Texas.

The Cost of Renters Insurance in Los Angeles

Renters insurance in Los Angeles doesn’t break the bank. On average, it costs about $17 per month or $204 a year. Pretty affordable, right? Especially when you consider how much protection you’re getting. From covering your belongings in case of theft to liability protection if someone gets hurt at your place, it’s worth every penny.

But here’s something to make it even cheaper. Bundling.

Bundling Makes It Better

If you’re already paying for auto insurance, consider adding renters insurance to the same policy. Why? Because most insurers offer multi-policy discounts. These discounts typically range from 5% to 25% off your total premium. Imagine cutting your insurance bill by nearly a quarter just for combining policies.

For example, if you’re paying $100 monthly for car insurance, bundling with renters insurance might shave $10–$25 off your total. That makes the already-low cost of renters insurance barely noticeable in your budget.

How Renters Insurance Helps

Imagine this scenario. Your dog nips a neighbor. The medical bills hit $10,000. Without insurance, you’re responsible for every penny. With renters insurance, you’re covered. Liability protection kicks in. Problem solved.

And don’t forget about property protection. A fire, theft, or burst pipe could destroy your belongings. Insurance ensures you won’t be left starting from scratch.

Many dog-friendly neighborhoods in these top states know the risks. Landlords understand it too, which is why more are requiring renters insurance before signing leases.

The Role of Landlords in Requiring Renters Insurance

Landlords in high-risk states like California, Texas, and Ohio are catching on. Renters insurance isn’t just a safeguard for tenants—it’s a smart move for landlords, too. Dog bite incidents, property damage, and unexpected accidents can all lead to costly lawsuits. Requiring tenants to carry renters insurance reduces that risk.

But what about tenants who’ve been renting for years without it? Here’s where things get tricky.

New Rules for Long-Term Tenants

Suppose you’ve been renting the same place for a decade, and now your landlord wants you to add renters insurance. Can they actually do that? The answer is yes—but only under certain conditions.

If your lease is expiring, your landlord can add a renters insurance requirement as part of the renewal terms. It’s perfectly legal, as long as tenants receive adequate notice and the change applies uniformly to all renters. Most landlords give tenants 30 to 60 days to show proof of insurance before the new lease kicks in.

For tenants with an ongoing lease, things are a little different. Landlords can’t typically alter the terms of an active lease unless there’s a specific clause allowing them to make changes. If not, they may have to wait until the lease period ends.

Why Both Parties Benefit

This shift to requiring renters insurance helps everyone involved.

• For landlords: It provides a safety net. Renters insurance covers tenant-caused damages to the property, reducing out-of-pocket repair costs. It also lowers the risk of legal battles if a dog bite or injury occurs on the premises.
• For tenants: It’s financial peace of mind. Renters insurance shields them from unexpected expenses like liability claims or replacing belongings after a disaster.

The cost? Hardly noticeable for many renters, especially given the discounts offered by bundling with auto policies.

Communication Is Key

For landlords mandating renters insurance, clarity is crucial. Explain the benefits to tenants and provide guidance on how to find affordable policies. Better yet, recommend insurers or resources to make the process easier. When tenants see the value instead of just the requirement, they’re more likely to comply willingly.

At the end of the day, requiring renters insurance fosters stability—for both tenants and landlords. It’s one of those rare cases where everyone wins.

Don’t Wait for the Worst

Dog bites are an emotional and financial nightmare. And they’re preventable. Practice safe behaviors with your pets. Educate kids and neighbors.

And if you’re a renter? Get that insurance policy. It’s peace of mind you can afford.

Resources Used:  https://www.moneygeek.com/insurance/renters/renters-insurance-statistics/

https://www.nerdwallet.com/insurance/renters/renters-insurance-california