Business Type: Mixed Farming
Section of Cover: Personal Liability
Applicable Cover: Claims against an insured person cover
Circumstance: Working dog allegedly injuring a member of the public.
Legal fees value: £8,074
The Scenario:
It was alleged that the business owner’s working dog attacked and injured a member of the public, prompting police intervention and legal proceedings against the owner.
What Happened:
The incident occurred when the working dog, owned by the insured business, became uncontrollable and attacked a member of the public. The injured party reported the attack, leading to the business owner being interviewed by the police under caution.
The Outcome:
Following the police interview, the business owner was charged and later found guilty of an offence under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. As a result, the owner received a one-year suspended sentence.
Fortunately, the business was insured by Rural Protect, who took responsibility for representing the insured and defending the case. Rural Protect covered the costs of legal counsel, defence, and expert reports required to support the defence. Thanks to this comprehensive support, the client only needed to pay their policy excess, with no further financial burden.
Things to Consider:
Even when a business is found guilty of an offence, having cover with Rural Protect ensures vital support is still provided. In this case, although the insured received a suspended sentence under the Dangerous Dogs Act, Rural Protect covered all legal defence costs, including expert reports and counsel. As a result, the client faced no additional financial burden beyond their policy excess, demonstrating the value of protection even in difficult legal outcomes. With no prospect of success clause in respect of defence matters, Rural Protect is there when it is vitally needed unlike Commercial Legal expenses where policyholders may be at the mercy of being below the 51% threshold and assistance being declined.
To understand more about Rural Protect and how it can help you and your business, call us on 01653 609090 or email enquiries@hbunderwriting.co.uk.
