Will My Auto Insurance Cover Pets?

Want to make sure your favorite dog or cat’s veterinary bills are covered in the event of an auto accident? Many major auto insurance companies offer some form of coverage for pets. Compare auto insurance to find the best option for you.

Does auto insurance cover pets? It’s a common question. With this guide, we’ll help you learn everything you need to know about the most affordable auto insurance that covers pets, so you and your furry friend can travel with peace of mind.

After you’ve taken a look at some of your options for protecting your pet with auto insurance, enter your ZIP code in our free online tool to compare quotes and find an auto insurance plan that meets your needs.

Does auto insurance cover pets?

Auto insurance can cover pets, but not all auto insurance companies offer pet coverage as an option. From those that do, auto insurance coverage for pets covers the cost of veterinary bills for pets injured in accidents.

In the unfortunate case where your pet dies as the result of a collision, insurance (either your own or the liability coverage of a different driver at fault) may compensate you. The exact amount depends on a number of factors.

Richard Harris Personal Injury Law Firm names a few factors that can determine the payout amount from either an insurance company or a lawsuit against the driver responsible for the collision:

• The pet’s market value based on its age, health, training, and breed
• The pet’s sentimental value/emotional distress caused to the owner
• Punitive costs intended to punish the guilty party (only applies to a lawsuit)

Which auto insurance companies cover pets?

Most auto insurance companies don’t cover pets as part of their standard collision or comprehensive coverage options. When it comes to the few that do, only dogs and cats are typically covered.

Here’s what some of the few auto insurance companies that cover pets have to offer:

• Progressive: Standard collision coverage includes up to $1,000 to cover veterinary costs for a dog/cat or a $1,000 payout if your pet dies as the result of a collision
• Erie: Pet injury insurance covers up to two dogs and/or cats involved in an accident and pays out up to $500 for each pet
• Metromile: In California, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington, drivers can claim up to $1,000 if their dog or cat is involved in a collision or another incident covered under comprehensive insurance
• Chubb: As part of the Masterpiece Auto Preference policy (an expensive option aimed at high-income customers), up to $2,000 can be paid out to cover pets injured or killed in an accident

Read more: How to Travel With a Dog

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Who is responsible if my pet is injured in a collision?

If your pet is injured or worse in an auto accident, responsibility can be a tricky matter. If you have an auto insurance policy with any company other than those listed in the previous section, you’ll likely have to pay out of pocket or use another form of insurance unless it can be determined that a different driver is to blame for the accident.

Pets are considered “property” by insurance policy standards, so if you’re not found to be at fault for a collision, the other driver’s liability coverage should pay for veterinary bills or pay out an amount equal to the value of the lost pet. Failing this, you may be able to go through court to obtain compensation for your injured or deceased pet from the responsible party.

If you want to ensure your pet will be protected — or that you will be compensated in the worst-case scenario — you’ll want to find an auto insurance company that covers pets under its collision policy.

Should I purchase pet insurance if my auto insurance doesn’t cover pets?

If you want to ensure that your pet is protected from more than just collisions, you’ll likely want to purchase pet insurance regardless of your auto insurance coverage status.

Like auto insurance, pet insurance comes in a few different forms, including basic, comprehensive, and well care coverage. Depending on your pet’s needs, pet insurance can cover anything from routine physical examinations to emergency medical treatment.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, both basic and comprehensive pet insurance can help you cover medical expenses that result from “accidental injuries.” In other words, pet insurance can reduce the bill from the vet if your pet is injured in a car accident.

Another advantage to purchasing pet insurance separately from auto insurance is that the former tends to be available for animals other than dogs and cats. So if your bird or reptile bumps against its cage during a road trip, your insurance won’t deny you coverage.

My dog was hit by a car, who is responsible? This is another common question. If your dog is hit by a car, you are responsible for the dog’s medical bills, though you can sue the driver to recoup your losses. But if you buy pet insurance, your coverage could pay for some of the costs.

So, who offers the best pet insurance? Both State Farm and Nationwide pet insurance are available, so if either of these companies is your current auto insurance company, you may find that it’s convenient to purchase pet insurance there as well.

Nationwide and State Farm pet insurance are both affordable options, but make sure to compare multiple plans so you know you’re getting the best deal.

What to Consider Before Purchasing Auto Insurance That Covers Pets

• Keep in mind that there are limited options if you’re looking for auto insurance that covers pets
• Only dogs and cats are covered by most auto insurance with pet injury coverage
• Consider purchasing pet insurance separately from auto insurance. This will cover your pet’s veterinary expenses in the event of a collision or other accident

To help you on your search for affordable auto insurance that covers pets, try our free online quote tool.