Are Pets Covered by Auto Insurance?

For many, pets are a part of the family, and it’s natural to want such furry family members to live as long and healthy a life as possible. Unfortunately, those lives can be cut short in the event of an auto accident. This is especially true when pets aren’t safely restrained by a seat belt over their body or by a belt connecting their crate to the seat. But even with such safety restraints, a pet may suffer injuries in an auto accident. Tackett insurance, Inc. offers a look at what happens if you are in a car accident with your pet and whether an auto insurance plan will cover your pet:

Are Pets Covered by Auto Insurance?

The answer is that it depends upon who is determined to be at-fault for the accident and what type of insurance coverage you choose.

• If you are found not at fault. Both the government and insurance companies currently see pets as property. Thus, if someone else is found at-fault of the car accident in which your pet was injured, restitution for your pet’s injuries are likely to be covered under the other person’s property damage (or liability coverage). You will need to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company (keep all of our receipts), but generally, your pet’s medical expenses will be paid or reimbursed by this policy. 
• If you are found at fault. If you are deemed at fault for a car accident, then your pet’s injuries sustained by that accident may still be covered, but only if it’s explicitly stated by the policy. Generally, this is a free or cheap add-on to collision or comprehensive auto coverage.

Ask Your Tackett Insurance, Inc. Agent About Pet Coverage

Not sure if your pet is currently covered? Contact our team at Tackett Insurance, Inc. in Memphis, TN today to talk with a friendly team about updating your auto insurance policy.