Does your auto insurance cover crashes with animals?
Thankfully, springtime fast approaching. Spring in New Jersey is a hotbed for animals in heat, making them more active and aggressive during the spring months. This increase in activity can be directly linked to an increase in crashes with animals on the road. And it isn’t limited to the state of New Jersey
This raises a question about insurance coverage. Crashes with animals can do some serious damage to your vehicle. And your policy may or may not include coverage for animal-related collisions. Despite the name, “collision coverage” DOES NOT include coverage for crashes with animals. But comprehensive coverage does.
Comprehensive Insurance covers crashes with animals. But do you have it?
Because comprehensive coverage is not required by law in the state of New Jersey, you may be on the hook for the repair costs incurred after a crash with an animal. Does your policy have comprehensive coverage? For help understanding your policy, reach out to us for a free policy review.
While you consider your insurance coverages, there are a few preventive things you can do to protect yourself from crashes with animals:
- Drive slower (especially at night!)
- Use your seatbelt. Always.
- Watch for roadside animal activity (glare from eyes, grazing activity)
- Drive in the middle lane to give animals clearance
- Use your highbeams on dark roads
- Honk your horn when you see animals to frighten them away
- Review your car insurance policy for comprehensive coverage
If you are about to collide with a deer, KEEP GOING, don’t swerve. Some have lost their lives trying to avoid hitting a deer. Contrary to your instincts, keep your foot on the gas and drive straight. Your vehicle is more capable of handling a head-on collision with a deer than a sideswipe that may send you careening off the road.
Have questions about your policy? Give us a call toll-free at (877) 721-7201
