During the first five months—January–May—of 2013, 14 Americans died from dog attacks. Thirteen of these dog bite victims were killed by pit bulls. Pit bulls account for less than 4 percent of the U.S. dog population.
Merritt Clifton, the editor ofAnimal People, conducted a detailed study of dog bites from 1982 to 2006. This study found that 65 percent of dog bite fatalities involve just three breeds of dogs and their mixes. These dogs are pit bulls, Rottweilers, Presa Canarios.
Because certain types of dogs are bred for aggressiveness and other traits that make them more likely to attack, some homeowners and renters insurance companies are refusing coverage to owners of these dogs. They say that they don’t want to deal with the potential personal injury lawsuit if someone in the home is bitten or otherwise injured.
11 dog breeds that may not be covered by homeowners or renters insurance:
- Pit Bulls & Staffordshire Terriers
- Doberman Pinschers
- Rottweilers
- German Shepherds
- Chows
- Great Danes
- Presa Canarios
- Akitas
- Alaskan Malamutes
- Siberian Huskies
- Wolf-hybrids
The truth is that no dog is completely safe. While some breeds are naturally more aggressive than others, any dog can be turned into a dangerous dog through mistreatment or a lack of training. A 4-pound Pomeranian was responsible for the 2000 death of a 6-week-old infant. The dog mauled the baby when the child was left unattended.
No matter what the breed of dog—dog owners are responsible for preventing dog bites in Georgia. When dog owners are negligent, they must pay for any damages that result. If you were attacked by a dog in Georgia, you deserve compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. An Atlanta dog bite lawyer can help you get that compensation. To learn more, contact Kaufman Law.
