Does Nationwide car insurance cover damage caused by a collision with an animal if I only have liability coverage?

Car collisions with animals can happen at any time, and they can be quite costly. Between the cost of repairs to your car and any medical bills, it’s no surprise that you might be wondering whether or not your insurance policy will cover such an event. In this article, we’ll examine how Nationwide car insurance handles animal collisions for drivers who only have liability coverage and explore the various options available.

Understanding liability coverage and what it covers

Liability coverage is the most basic type of car insurance coverage that drivers are required to have by law. It is designed to protect you financially if you cause an accident that results in property damage or bodily injury to others. Liability coverage typically includes two components:

• Bodily injury liability: This coverage helps pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with injury or death to people in the event of an accident you caused.
• Property damage liability: This coverage helps pay for property damage you caused in an accident to someone else’s vehicle or other property.

It’s important to note that liability coverage does not cover any damage to your own vehicle, and it may not cover damage caused by an animal collision if you only have this type of coverage.

It’s also important to understand the limits of your liability coverage. Each state has a minimum requirement for liability coverage, but it may not be enough to fully protect you in the event of a serious accident. You may want to consider increasing your liability coverage limits or adding additional coverage options, such as collision or comprehensive coverage, to ensure you are fully protected in any situation.

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Understanding the different types of car insurance coverage available

In addition to liability coverage, there are several other types of car insurance coverage available:

• Collision coverage: This type of coverage pays for damage to your vehicle caused by a collision with another vehicle, an object, or an animal.
• Comprehensive coverage: This type of coverage pays for damage to your vehicle that is not caused by a collision, such as theft, vandalism, or weather-related events.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: This coverage provides financial protection if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have enough insurance coverage to pay for the damages they caused.

It’s important to note that the amount of coverage you need may vary depending on your individual circumstances. For example, if you have a new or expensive car, you may want to consider getting collision and comprehensive coverage to protect your investment. On the other hand, if you have an older car that is not worth much, you may be able to save money by only getting liability coverage. It’s always a good idea to speak with an insurance agent to determine the best coverage options for your specific needs.

What Is Nationwide Car Insurance?

Nationwide is one of the largest insurance providers in the United States, offering a variety of insurance products, including car insurance. They offer a range of coverage options to suit different needs and budgets.

One of the unique features of Nationwide car insurance is their Vanishing Deductible program. This program allows customers to earn $100 off their deductible for every year of safe driving, up to a maximum of $500. This can be a great way to save money on your car insurance premiums over time, while also incentivizing safe driving habits.

What Kind Of Damages Does Nationwide Car Insurance Cover?

The type of damages that are covered by Nationwide car insurance depends on the level of coverage you choose. If you only have liability coverage, you will not be covered for damage to your own vehicle caused by a collision with an animal or any other cause. However, if you have collision coverage, you will be covered for animal collisions, as well as collisions with other vehicles and objects.

In addition to collision coverage, Nationwide car insurance also offers comprehensive coverage. This type of coverage protects your vehicle from non-collision incidents such as theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. Comprehensive coverage can also cover damages caused by hitting an animal, such as a deer or a moose.

It’s important to note that even with comprehensive coverage, there may be certain exclusions and limitations. For example, if you leave your keys in the car and it gets stolen, your insurance may not cover the loss. It’s always a good idea to review your policy and speak with your insurance agent to fully understand what is and isn’t covered.

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Collision Coverage Vs. Liability Coverage: What’S The Difference?

The main difference between collision coverage and liability coverage is that liability coverage only covers damage and injuries to others, while collision coverage also covers damage to your own vehicle.

It’s important to note that collision coverage is typically more expensive than liability coverage, as it provides more comprehensive protection. However, if you have a newer or more expensive vehicle, collision coverage may be worth the investment to ensure that you are fully covered in the event of an accident. On the other hand, if you have an older or less valuable vehicle, liability coverage may be sufficient to meet your needs and save you money on your insurance premiums.

Can I Add Collision Coverage To My Nationwide Policy?

Yes, you can add collision coverage to your Nationwide policy for an additional cost. The cost of adding collision coverage will depend on a number of factors, such as your driving record, the type of vehicle you drive, and your location.

Collision coverage is an optional type of auto insurance that covers damage to your vehicle in the event of a collision with another vehicle or object. It can also cover damage caused by potholes or other road hazards.

It’s important to note that collision coverage is not required by law, but it can provide valuable protection for your vehicle. If you have a newer or more expensive car, collision coverage may be a wise investment to protect your investment in the event of an accident.

What to do if you collide with an animal while driving

If you collide with an animal while driving, there are a few things you should do right away:

• Pull over to a safe location, if possible.
• Check yourself and any passengers in the vehicle for injuries.
• Call emergency services if anyone is injured or if the animal poses a hazard to other drivers.
• If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the scene and any damage to your vehicle.

After you have taken the necessary steps to ensure everyone’s safety, it’s important to report the incident to the appropriate authorities. This includes notifying the police and your insurance company. The police will file a report and may also contact animal control to remove the animal from the road.

It’s also important to remember that collisions with animals can cause significant damage to your vehicle. Even if the damage seems minor, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic to ensure there are no underlying issues that could affect its safety or performance.

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How to file a claim with Nationwide for damages caused by an animal collision

If you have collision coverage and you’ve collided with an animal, you can file a claim with Nationwide to have your damages covered. To file a claim, you’ll need to provide information about the accident, including when and where it happened, the extent of the damage to your vehicle, and any medical expenses or other personal costs you incurred as a result of the accident.

It’s important to note that if you hit a domestic animal, such as a dog or cat, you should try to locate the owner and contact them immediately. If the animal is injured, you should also contact animal control or a local veterinarian for assistance. Nationwide may require proof that you made a reasonable effort to locate the owner and report the incident before processing your claim.

Tips for avoiding collisions with animals while driving

While animal collisions can happen at any time, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk:

• Drive at a safe and appropriate speed for the area you’re in.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in rural areas where there may be more wildlife.
• Use your high beams when driving at night in areas where wildlife is common.
• Avoid swerving or sudden braking if you encounter an animal on the road. Instead, try to slow down and stop if possible.
• Keep your vehicle maintained, with working headlights and brakes.

It’s important to note that some animals are more active during certain times of the day. For example, deer are most active during dawn and dusk, so it’s important to be extra cautious during these times. Additionally, if you see one animal on the road, there may be others nearby, so it’s important to slow down and be alert.

If you do hit an animal, it’s important to stay calm and pull over to a safe location. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries, and call for help if needed. If the animal is still alive, do not approach it, as it may be injured and could be dangerous. Instead, call animal control or the local authorities for assistance.

Common myths about liability coverage and animal collisions debunked

There are several misconceptions about liability coverage and animal collisions, such as:

• Myth: Liability coverage will cover damage to your vehicle if you collide with an animal.
• Fact: Liability coverage only covers damage and injuries to others, not damage to your own vehicle.
• Myth: Animal collisions are always covered by comprehensive coverage.
• Fact: Comprehensive coverage only covers damage to your vehicle that is not caused by a collision, such as theft, vandalism, or weather-related events.

However, there are some situations where animal collisions may be covered by collision coverage. Collision coverage is an optional type of insurance that covers damage to your own vehicle in the event of a collision, regardless of who is at fault. If you have collision coverage, and you collide with an animal, your insurance may cover the cost of repairs to your vehicle.

It’s important to note that collision coverage typically comes with a deductible, which is the amount you’ll have to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Additionally, collision coverage may not be worth the cost if you have an older vehicle that is not worth much money.

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Nationwide’s liability coverage limits and exclusions for animal collisions

It’s important to note that even if you have liability coverage, there may be limits to how much you can claim for animal collisions. Additionally, certain breeds of animals may be excluded from coverage entirely. To find out more about Nationwide’s liability coverage limits and exclusions for animal collisions, it’s best to contact them directly.

How Much Does It Cost To Add Collision Coverage To My Nationwide Policy?

The cost of adding collision coverage to your Nationwide policy will depend on a number of factors, such as your driving record, the type of vehicle you drive, and your location. It’s best to contact Nationwide directly to get a quote for adding collision coverage to your policy.

Should I Consider Adding Comprehensive Coverage In Addition To My Liability And Collision Coverage?

It’s always a good idea to consider your options when it comes to car insurance coverage. Comprehensive coverage can provide additional protection for a wide range of events that can damage your vehicle, including theft, vandalism, and weather-related events. However, it’s important to weigh the cost of additional coverage against the benefits you would receive.

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Final thoughts: Making an informed choice about your car insurance coverage options with Nationwide

When it comes to car insurance, it’s important to understand your coverage options and choose the policy that best suits your needs and budget. While liability coverage is the most basic coverage required by law and will not cover damages caused by animal collisions, adding collision coverage can provide you with peace of mind and financial protection. Additionally, considering options like comprehensive coverage can provide even more protection for your vehicle. By making an informed choice about your coverage options, you can drive with confidence knowing you have the protection you need.

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