Animal collision insurance is an important coverage that helps protect drivers from unexpected and potentially costly encounters with wildlife. Imagine driving home after a long day, cruising along a rural road as dusk settles in. Suddenly, a deer darts out from the trees before you can react—thump. Or maybe you walk out to your car on a chilly morning and discover that some furry critters have made a winter home in your engine compartment, chewing through wires and hoses. Having the right coverage in place can make all the difference when nature takes an unexpected turn.
Animal encounters happen more often than you might think. Over 1.5 million deer-vehicle collisions occur annually in the United States. But what about your car? Who covers the damage? Let's cover what you need to know about car insurance for animal damage and how Wawanesa keeps its members protected.
Common Animal-Related Car Damage Scenarios
When Big Animals and Cars Collide
Deer-vehicle collisions are startlingly common, especially during migration seasons in the fall and spring. These encounters can cause serious damage — crumpled hoods, broken windshields, and even totaled vehicles aren't uncommon when a 150-pound deer meets your car at highway speeds.
It's not just deer, though. Depending on where you live, you might face risks from moose, elk, bears, or even escaped livestock. A collision with any of these animals can cost thousands of dollars in repair costs.
The Tiny Troublemakers: Rodents and Small Animals
Not all animal damage comes from dramatic highway collisions. Sometimes, it's the little critters that cause big problems. Mice, rats, squirrels, and other rodents love to make homes in warm engine compartments, especially during cold weather.
They'll chew through wiring, hoses, and insulation, sometimes causing damage that's not immediately obvious but can lead to serious mechanical problems.
Nests built in air filters or ventilation systems can block airflow and create fire hazards. Even cats seeking warmth under the hood can damage components or get injured when you start your engine (so if you park outside or have pets, it is always best to do a quick check before starting your car).
Encounters with Pets and Domestic Animals
Unfortunately, drivers sometimes hit pets or farm animals that have wandered into roadways. These situations can be emotionally distressing, but they also raise questions about liability, especially if the animal belongs to someone.
Does Car Insurance Cover Animal Damage?
The good news is that many animal-related car damages are covered by insurance — but it depends on the type of coverage you have.
Regarding animal damage and car insurance, comprehensive coverage is your best friend. This is the part of your policy that typically covers:
- Collisions with deer, elk, or other wildlife
- Damage from rodents chewing wires or components
- Damage from birds or falling objects (like a tree branch knocked down by an animal)
The important thing to remember is that comprehensive coverage covers many accidents and situations, which is why most drivers opt for it over collision insurance alone.
Filing a Car Insurance Claim for Hitting an Animal
If you've had an unfortunate encounter with wildlife (or someone's pet), here's what to do:
- Ensure safety first. If the collision was severe, check for injuries and move to a safe location.
- Document everything. Take photos of the damage and the scene. If it's a domestic animal, try to locate the owner if possible and safe to do so.
- Report the incident. You may need to report significant wildlife collisions to local police or wildlife management.
- Contact your insurance company. Explain what happened and start the claims process. Wawanesa members can file claims 24/7 through our website or mobile app.
- Get your vehicle inspected. Even if damage seems minor, have a professional check your car for hidden problems.
Will Filing an Animal Damage Claim Raise My Rates?
Many Wawanesa members worry that filing a claim will automatically increase their premiums. The truth is a bit more nuanced. Comprehensive claims, like animal collisions, generally have less impact on your rates than at-fault accidents.
Many insurance companies, including Wawanesa, don't typically raise rates for comprehensive claims that are out of your control — like a deer darting into the road. However, depending on the state in which you live, multiple claims in a short period might affect your premiums at renewal time.
Preventing Animal-Related Car Damage
While you can't control wildlife behavior, you can take steps to reduce your risk:
Avoiding Wildlife Collisions
- Be extra alert at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
- Slow down in areas with wildlife crossing signs.
- Use high beams when possible on dark roads.
- Remember that deer rarely travel alone — if you see one, more may follow.
- Don't swerve erratically to avoid animals, as this can cause more serious accidents.
- Always practice defensive driving.
Protecting Against Rodent Damage
- Don't leave food in your vehicle.
- Park indoors when possible.
- Consider using deterrent sprays around your engine compartment.
- Check under your hood regularly for signs of nesting.
- In rodent-prone areas, start your car regularly, even if you're not driving it.
Is Your Car Protected?
Animal encounters can happen to anyone, anywhere. The right car insurance for animal damage provides peace of mind, knowing you won't be stuck with a hefty repair bill after an unexpected wildlife encounter.
Wawanesa members benefit from our straightforward claims process and comprehensive coverage options. If you're unsure what your policy covers, now is a great time to review your protection and ensure you're prepared for whatever crosses your path.
Contact us today to review your policy.
FAQ
What should I do immediately after hitting an animal?
First, pull over as soon as possible and turn on your hazard lights. Check for injuries and call emergency services if needed, as well as wildlife control. Don't approach an injured wild animal. Document the scene with photos and contact your insurance company immediately.
Can I file a claim if an animal caused an accident, but I didn't hit it?
Yes. If you swerve to avoid an animal and hit something else, that's considered a collision and is handled as such.
Does car insurance cover vet bills if I hit someone's pet?
Generally, auto insurance doesn't cover veterinary bills for animals you hit. However, liability coverage might apply if the pet owner claims you were negligent. This varies by situation and policy.
How can I tell if my car has rodent damage?
Warning signs include strange smells from the vents, chewed materials under the hood, visible droppings, or unexplained check engine lights. If your car doesn't start or runs roughly, rodent damage could be the culprit.
How Will my insurance rates increase if I file an animal damage claim?
Comprehensive claims for animal damage typically have less impact on rates than at-fault collision claims. Many insurers, including Wawanesa, don't penalize drivers for truly unpreventable animal collisions, but policies vary by company.
