Does Auto-Owners Insurance car insurance cover damage caused by a collision with an animal if I only have liability coverage?

Auto-Owners Insurance is a popular choice for car insurance, known for its competitive rates, reliable customer service, and broad range of coverage options. However, for those looking to save money on their car insurance premiums, liability coverage may seem like the best option. But what happens if you collide with an animal on the road? Does Auto-Owners Insurance car insurance cover damage caused by a collision with an animal if you only have liability coverage? Let’s take a closer look.

Understanding The Different Types Of Auto-Owners Insurance Coverage

Before we dive into the specifics of liability coverage and animal-related collisions, let’s first understand the different types of coverage that Auto-Owners Insurance offers.

Auto-Owners Insurance provides a variety of coverage options for drivers, including liability coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, and personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. Liability coverage is the most basic type of coverage available and is required by law in most states. It covers damages to other drivers and their property if you are found to be at fault in an accident. However, it does not cover damages to your own vehicle.

Collision coverage, on the other hand, covers damages to your car if you are involved in a collision with another car or object, regardless of who is at fault. Comprehensive coverage will cover damages to your car if it is stolen, vandalized, or damaged due to weather conditions such as hail or flooding. Finally, PIP coverage is designed to cover medical expenses and lost wages incurred by you or your passengers in an accident.

It’s important to note that Auto-Owners Insurance also offers additional coverage options that can be added to your policy for extra protection. These options include roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and gap insurance. Roadside assistance provides help if your car breaks down or you get a flat tire while driving. Rental car reimbursement covers the cost of a rental car if your car is being repaired after an accident. Gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe on your car and what it is worth if it is totaled in an accident.

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What Is Liability Coverage And How Does It Work?

Now let’s take a closer look at liability coverage and how it works. Liability coverage is designed to cover damages and injury expenses for other drivers and vehicles if you are found to be at fault in an accident. It typically includes two types of coverage: bodily injury liability and property damage liability.

Bodily injury liability covers the medical expenses and lost wages incurred by another party if you are responsible for their injuries in an accident. Property damage liability covers damages to another party’s property, such as their car, if you are found to be at fault for the accident.

It’s important to note that liability coverage has limits. This means that the insurance company will only pay up to a certain amount for damages and injuries. If the damages or injuries exceed the coverage limit, you may be responsible for paying the remaining costs out of pocket. It’s important to choose a liability coverage limit that adequately protects you in case of an accident.

Additionally, liability coverage is typically required by law in most states. The minimum coverage requirements vary by state, so it’s important to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to ensure you have the appropriate coverage. Some states also require additional coverage, such as uninsured motorist coverage, which protects you if you are in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance.

The Risks Of Driving Without Comprehensive Coverage

While liability coverage is the most basic type of coverage available, it is important to note that it does not cover damages to your own vehicle. This means that if you are involved in a collision with an animal, you will not be covered for any damages to your car if you only have liability coverage.

Without comprehensive coverage, you could be left with a hefty repair bill or even be forced to replace your car entirely if the damage is severe enough. This is an important consideration when choosing the right type of coverage for your needs.

Another risk of driving without comprehensive coverage is that you will not be covered for damages caused by natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, or tornadoes. These events can cause significant damage to your vehicle, and without comprehensive coverage, you will be responsible for paying for the repairs or replacement out of pocket.

Additionally, if your car is stolen or vandalized, you will not be covered without comprehensive coverage. This can be a devastating experience, both emotionally and financially, and having comprehensive coverage can provide peace of mind knowing that you are protected in these situations.

Collision With An Animal: What To Do And Who To Call

If you find yourself in a collision with an animal, the most important thing to do is to stay calm and assess the situation. Your safety is the top priority, so make sure to pull over to a safe area and turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.

Once you have ensured your own safety, inspect your car for damages and contact your insurance provider to report the accident. Auto-Owners Insurance has a 24/7 claims reporting service, so you can report the accident as soon as it happens.

It is important to note that collisions with animals can cause serious injuries to both the animal and the driver. If the animal is still alive, do not approach it as it may be injured and scared. Instead, contact your local animal control or wildlife rescue organization to report the incident and request assistance. They will be able to safely handle the situation and provide medical attention to the animal if needed.

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Can You File A Claim For Animal-Related Damage With Liability Coverage?

So, can you file a claim for animal-related damage with liability coverage? The short answer is no. Liability coverage is not designed to cover damages to your own vehicle in the event of an accident, even if that accident is caused by a collision with an animal.

However, if you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to file a claim for animal-related damage. Comprehensive coverage is designed to cover damages to your own vehicle that are not caused by a collision, such as damage from a fallen tree or a hailstorm. Animal-related damage, such as hitting a deer or having your car scratched by a pet, may also be covered under comprehensive coverage.

How Much Will Auto-Owners Insurance Pay For Damage From A Collision With An Animal?

If you have purchased comprehensive coverage, Auto-Owners Insurance will pay for damages to your car caused by a collision with an animal. However, it is important to note that the amount of coverage provided will vary depending on your policy and the extent of the damage.

When you purchase comprehensive coverage, you can choose your deductible amount, which is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. The higher your deductible, the lower your monthly premiums will be. However, this also means that you will be responsible for a larger portion of the repair costs if you are involved in an accident.

It is also important to note that Auto-Owners Insurance may have specific requirements for filing a claim for damages caused by a collision with an animal. For example, you may need to provide evidence of the collision, such as photos or a police report, and you may need to have your car inspected by an approved mechanic. Additionally, some policies may have limits on the amount of coverage provided for animal collisions, so it is important to review your policy carefully to understand your coverage.

The Pros And Cons Of Adding Comprehensive Coverage To Your Auto-Owners Insurance Policy

So, should you add comprehensive coverage to your Auto-Owners Insurance policy? The answer will depend on your individual circumstances and financial situation. There are pros and cons to consider.

The main advantage of adding comprehensive coverage is that it will protect you from the costs of damages caused by animal-related collisions, theft, or weather events. It will also provide peace of mind knowing that you are protected in the event of an accident.

The main disadvantage is that it will increase your monthly premiums, leaving you with less money in your budget each month. Additionally, if you have an older vehicle that is not worth a lot of money, you may not need comprehensive coverage at all.

Another factor to consider when deciding whether to add comprehensive coverage to your Auto-Owners Insurance policy is your driving habits. If you frequently drive in areas with high rates of animal collisions or severe weather, comprehensive coverage may be worth the added cost. On the other hand, if you primarily drive in urban areas with low rates of these types of incidents, you may not need comprehensive coverage.

It’s also important to note that comprehensive coverage typically comes with a deductible, which is the amount you will have to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Make sure you choose a deductible that you can afford in the event of an accident or other covered incident.

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Tips For Avoiding Collisions With Animals On The Road

Given the risks of colliding with an animal on the road, it is important to take precautions to avoid an accident. Here are some tips:

• Pay attention to signs warning of animal crossings
• Be particularly cautious when driving at dawn or dusk, as this is when animals are most active
• Keep your headlights on at all times, even during the day
• Use your horn to scare away any animals that may be in your path
• Do not swerve to avoid an animal, as this may cause you to lose control of your vehicle

However, there are additional steps you can take to further reduce the risk of colliding with an animal on the road. One of these is to reduce your speed when driving through areas known to have a high population of animals. This will give you more time to react if an animal suddenly appears in your path.

Another important tip is to always wear your seatbelt. In the event of a collision with an animal, a seatbelt can help prevent serious injuries or even save your life. Additionally, if you do hit an animal, it is important to pull over to a safe location and contact the authorities. They can help remove the animal from the road and ensure that it receives any necessary medical attention.

How To Choose The Right Auto-Owners Insurance Policy For Your Needs

When it comes to choosing the right Auto-Owners Insurance policy for your needs, it is important to consider your budget and the level of coverage you require. Take the time to compare quotes and coverage options from different providers, and make sure to read the fine print before making a decision.

Another important factor to consider when choosing an Auto-Owners Insurance policy is the reputation of the provider. Look for reviews and ratings from other customers to get an idea of their experiences with the company. Additionally, consider the level of customer service provided by the insurer, as this can make a big difference in your overall experience if you need to file a claim or have questions about your policy.

Comparing Rates: Is Comprehensive Coverage Worth The Extra Cost?

At the end of the day, the decision to add comprehensive coverage to your Auto-Owners Insurance policy will come down to your individual circumstances. While it may increase your monthly premiums, it can provide valuable protection and peace of mind in the event of an accident. By comparing rates and coverage options, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and budget.

In conclusion, if you only have liability coverage, you will not be covered for damages caused by a collision with an animal. It is important to consider the risks of driving without comprehensive coverage and to take precautions to avoid an accident. If you do purchase comprehensive coverage, make sure to choose the right deductible and read the fine print to ensure that you are fully covered in the event of an accident.

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