Does Car Insurance Cover Animal Damage? If you’ve ever driven through Massachusetts and had a deer jump out in front of your car, you’re not alone. Animal-related accidents are more common than many people think—and they can lead to serious damage and costly repairs.
In this article, we’ll explain which types of car insurance include this kind of coverage, what to do if it happens to you, and how to reduce the risk of damage. Whether you’re driving in the city or out in the countryside, understanding your coverage can save you time, money, and stress.
What Kind of Car Insurance Covers Animal Damage?
Not every car insurance policy protects you against animal damage. Here’s what you need to know:
Liability coverage: This is the basic coverage required by law. It pays for damage you cause to others, but it doesn’t cover your car if you hit an animal.
Collision coverage: This helps pay for repairs to your car if you crash into another vehicle or object. It might cover animal collisions in some cases, but not always.
Comprehensive coverage: This is the best protection when it comes to animal-related incidents. It covers things like weather damage, theft, vandalism—and damage caused by animals.
💬 Hemelyh says: “Many people only realize they’re not covered after the damage is done. That’s why I always recommend considering comprehensive coverage—it’s what protects you in these unexpected situations.”
What Counts as Animal Damage?
Animal damage includes anything caused by wildlife or domestic animals. Common examples include:
Hitting a deer while driving
Birds cracking your windshield or damaging paint
Rodents chewing wires under the hood
A stray cat scratching your parked car
All of these fall under the umbrella of animal damage—and without the right coverage, the repair costs can quickly add up.
What to Do After Hitting an Animal
If you hit an animal or find signs of damage:
Pull over safely and turn on your hazard lights.
Take photos of the damage and the animal, if possible.
Write down the time, location, and what happened.
Call your insurance company to report the incident.
Having this information ready will help speed up your claim.
How to Prevent Animal Damage
You can’t completely avoid wildlife, but these tips can help reduce the risk:
Slow down in rural or wooded areas, especially at dawn and dusk.
Use your high beams when safe to improve visibility.
Watch for animal crossing signs.
Park in a garage or covered area when possible.
Use natural repellents or ultrasonic devices to deter rodents.
Check under the hood regularly if you park outside.
Filing an Insurance Claim for Animal Damage
If you need to file a claim:
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
Send them photos and a description of what happened.
Keep track of any police reports or repair estimates.
Follow the steps they give you for getting your car inspected and repaired.
The faster you gather and submit your info, the smoother the process will be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my regular car insurance cover animal damage?
Only if you have comprehensive coverage. Liability and most collision policies won’t cover it.
Should I report the accident to the police?
Sometimes, yes—especially if the animal is large or caused a dangerous situation. A police report can also help with your insurance claim.
What animals cause the most damage?
In Massachusetts and other states, deer, squirrels, raccoons, and even birds can cause serious issues—from collisions to chewed wires and scratched paint.
Can I prevent animals from nesting in my car?
Yes. Avoid parking near woods, clean your engine bay regularly, and use repellents. If you see signs of nesting, get it checked immediately.
Final Thoughts: Stay Protected
Animal-related car damage can happen to anyone—and the costs can be high. The best way to protect yourself is to have comprehensive coverage and to know what your policy includes.
By staying alert, driving with caution, and parking smartly, you can reduce your risk. And if something does happen, you’ll have the right coverage to handle it without stress.
🟢 Need help reviewing your policy? Talk to the team at Premium Insurance Group. We’re here to explain everything clearly and help you make the best decision for your protection.
