Does Renters Insurance Cover Dog Bites in New Mexico?

Is Renters Insurance Required in New Mexico?

No; however, even though state law doesn’t require renters to hold renters insurance in New Mexico, property owners, landlords, and property management companies can require some form of coverage within their lease agreements.

While renters insurance isn’t required, having even a small policy can help you recover from certain damages that may occur to your property as a renter, and the average cost for renters insurance in New Mexico is approximately $264 per year, or around $22 per month.

In The Article

What Does Renters Insurance Cover in New Mexico?

Different insurance companies have different types of policies for renters. Under basic policies you could see coverage for:

• Vandalism
• Theft
• Fire & Smoke Damage
• Certain Weather Events
• Water Damage
• Guest Injuries

Items that could be covered under your renters insurance policy may include:

• Jewelry (up to a certain amount)
• Furniture
• Electronics
• Exercise equipment

If your policy includes personal liability coverage, check with your insurance company representatives to ensure you're covered for:

• Accidental building/property damage
• Medical expenses to injured guests

It's important to ask your insurance carrier to clarify what is covered. Don't be afraid to give potential scenarios that could occur to ask if you're covered. For example, you might say "I have $20,000 worth of jewelry in my residence. If there is a total loss due to a fire, will that be covered?" If the answer is no, consider asking them to add to your package in order to ensure you are fully covered in the event of a total loss.

This is especially true if you have a pet. Clarify whether your policy covers dog bite injuries or other pet related damages.

Do Renters Insurance Companies Have Separate Pet Policies?

According to Progressive, "Renters insurance may cover pet damage as part of your policy's liability coverage…However, renters insurance won't cover damage to your own property that's caused by your pet." So, if your cat damages your furniture by using it as a scratching post, you cannot claim this on your renters insurance. However, if your renters insurance covers dog bites, victims may be able to file claims against you if your dog attacks them and that attack leads to injuries.

While some renters insurance policies do cover dog bite liability, there are some breeds of dog that will not be covered.

Which Specific Dog Breeds Are Not Covered Under Renters Insurance?

Depending on your policy, certain dog breeds that are considered dangerous won't be covered on your renters insurance. These breeds could include Pit Bulls, Dobermans, and Rottweilers. Other large breeds may be considered dangerous or high-risk. These aggressive dog breeds could include:

• German Shepherds
• Mastiffs
• Akitas
• Chow Chows
• Great Danes

It's important to talk to your insurance agent about your policy to be sure your dog is covered.

Does Renters Insurance Cover Dog Bites in New Mexico?

Many insurance policies for renters will cover dog bites under their personal liability coverage. However, it's important for dog owners to clarify with their insurance companies to ensure they are covered properly.

What to Do if You've Been Bitten by a Dog

If you've been bitten by a dog, collect as much evidence as possible. If you're in a safe position to do so, be sure to document what kind of dog attacked you with photos on your phone. Additionally, take pictures of the scene and try to collect contact information from eyewitnesses. Collect the information of the dog owner, if possible.

Seek medical attention after a dog attack and be sure to collect any medical documentation that can help prove your case.

If collecting evidence is difficult based on the extent of your injury or dealing with an unknown dog, contact Ron Bell Injury Lawyers. Our investigative team can help you collect evidence that may help prove your case against a dog owner.

The experienced dog bite lawyers at Ron Bell Injury Lawyers understand how to deal with big insurance companies that may try to get you to settle for a fraction of your damages. Our team fights to get you the compensation you deserve.