Are Pets Covered by Car Insurance?

Does car insurance cover pets?

It depends. While pet coverage is readily available by some car insurance companies, it's not always a given — some insurers automatically include coverage for your pet if it happens to be injured in a car accident, but most do not. Generally, auto insurance covers only dogs or cats and will cover veterinarian and other medical expenses up to the coverage limit.

In some circumstances, if your pet is injured in an accident and you don't have pet coverage, it may be possible to cover their medical expenses through other means. As always, check your car insurance policy to confirm the level of coverage. If your dog or cat isn't covered, you can always use the Zebra to look for a new policy with some of the best value insurance companies on the market. Now, let's explore how car insurance would work to cover your beloved pet's injuries.

What happens if an accident occurs with a pet in the car

Depending on the circumstances of the accident, a pet's injuries could be covered in one of a few different ways. 

If you're the at-fault driver

If you get in a collision and you're at fault, your collision coverage would cover your pet's vet expenses only if this is explicitly stated in your policy. If your policy does not extend coverage to pets and you often let your dog ride in your car, consider adding an endorsement — if you already have collision and comprehensive coverage, pet coverage is usually quite cheap or even provided with no extra premium.

If you're not at fault

Insurance companies see pets as property. If someone else causes a car accident and your pet is injured, the other party's property damage coverage (considered a part of liability coverage) would cover the medical expenses of your dog or cat. You would need to file a claim with the other party's insurance company to have them pay or reimburse you for the damages.

Safe driving tips with a pet in the car

Accidents happen, even to the safest of drivers.

Whether or not your pet is sufficiently insured in case of an accident, you can take steps to reduce the likelihood of injury and keep your dog or cat as safe as possible when they're riding along.

• Consider separate pet insurance if you often drive with your pet and your current insurance doesn't offer pet coverage. Having a separate pet insurance policy would be a wise decision for peace of mind, as it will guarantee coverage — no matter who's at fault — of veterinary expenses up to the specified limit. Compare pet insurance quotes.
• Ensure your dog or cat will not impede your physical or mental ability to drive the car. If your dog is unsecured and crawling on your lap, underneath the car seat, and generally making you take the eyes off the road, it becomes a huge safety hazard for everyone involved, including other drivers on the road.
• The safest way to drive with your pet is to use a seat belt or safety harness specifically designed for car rides. If your pet won't tolerate these options, consider crating your dog or cat and securing it in the back of your vehicle.
• If possible, train your dog during its early years to behave calmly while riding in the car. Your pup probably loves riding along with his head sticking out the window, but if you happen to get in a collision — even a small accident or fender bender — the animal could be likely to sustain a serious or fatal injury. It's much safer for a dog to sit or lie down on the seat while wearing a harness.