Does Western National Insurance Group car insurance cover damage caused by a collision with an animal if I only have liability coverage?

If you’re a car owner, the chances are high that you have car insurance to protect you against possible damages on the road. In fact, having car insurance is a legal requirement in most states in the United States. However, with so many coverage options available, it can be confusing to determine which one is right for you, especially if you are on a tight budget. One common question that arises is whether Western National Insurance Group car insurance covers damage caused by a collision with an animal if you only have liability coverage. Let’s explore this question in detail.

Understanding The Different Types Of Car Insurance Coverage Offered By Western National Insurance Group

Before we delve deeper into the question of liability coverage and animal collisions, let’s first briefly explore the three types of car insurance coverage provided by Western National Insurance Group: liability, collision, and comprehensive.

Liability insurance is the minimum coverage required by law and it covers damages that you may cause to other drivers, their property, or their passengers. It doesn’t cover your own damages. Collision insurance pays for damages to your car in the event of an accident, regardless of who was at fault. Comprehensive insurance is an optional coverage that provides protection against non-collision damage such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.

It’s important to note that while liability insurance is the minimum required by law, it may not be enough to fully protect you in the event of a serious accident. It’s always a good idea to consider purchasing additional coverage, such as collision or comprehensive insurance, to ensure that you are fully protected in any situation. Additionally, Western National Insurance Group offers a variety of discounts and bundling options to help make their coverage more affordable for their customers.

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Liability Coverage: What It Covers And What It Doesn’T

Liability coverage is the most basic form of car insurance coverage, and it only covers damages that you may cause to others on the road. It doesn’t cover your own damages, including damages caused by a collision with an animal, unless you have additional collision or comprehensive coverage.

It’s important to note that liability coverage also has limits. The coverage limit is the maximum amount that your insurance company will pay for damages caused by you in an accident. If the damages exceed your coverage limit, you may be responsible for paying the remaining amount out of pocket. It’s a good idea to review your coverage limits and consider increasing them if you have significant assets that could be at risk in the event of a lawsuit.

Collision Coverage: Everything You Need To Know

Collision coverage, on the other hand, covers damages to your car in the event of a collision, regardless of who is at fault. This includes damages caused by a collision with an animal. If you have collision coverage, then you can file a claim with Western National Insurance Group to cover the damages to your car.

It’s important to note that collision coverage is not required by law, but it may be required by your lender if you have a car loan. Additionally, collision coverage typically comes with a deductible, which is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. It’s important to choose a deductible that you can afford in the event of an accident. Keep in mind that collision coverage can be more expensive than liability coverage, but it can provide valuable protection for your vehicle.

Comprehensive Coverage: Understanding The Extent Of Your Protection

Comprehensive coverage is an optional coverage that provides protection against non-collision damages such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. It also covers damages caused by a collision with an animal. If you have comprehensive coverage, then you can file a claim with Western National Insurance Group to cover the damages to your car caused by a collision with an animal.

It is important to note that comprehensive coverage does not cover damages caused by a collision with another vehicle or object. For that, you would need collision coverage. However, having both comprehensive and collision coverage can provide you with complete protection for your vehicle in case of any unforeseen events. It is always recommended to review your insurance policy and coverage options with your insurance provider to ensure that you have the right coverage for your needs.

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Is Collision With An Animal Covered Under Liability Insurance?

No, liability insurance doesn’t cover collision with an animal. Liability coverage only covers damages that you may cause to others on the road, not damages to your own car.

However, collision coverage can help pay for damages to your car if you hit an animal or if your car is damaged in a single-car accident, such as hitting a tree or a fence. Collision coverage is an optional coverage that you can add to your auto insurance policy. It can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement of your car, up to the actual cash value of your car, minus your deductible.

What Happens If You Don’T Have Comprehensive Coverage And Hit An Animal?

If you don’t have comprehensive coverage, then you will need to pay for the damages to your car out of pocket. This can be expensive, especially if the damages are extensive.

It’s important to note that hitting an animal can also cause injuries to the driver and passengers in the car. If you don’t have medical coverage, you may also be responsible for paying for any medical expenses resulting from the accident.

Additionally, hitting an animal can be a traumatic experience for the driver and may cause emotional distress. It’s important to seek support and counseling if needed to cope with the aftermath of the accident.

Can You Add Comprehensive Coverage To Your Policy After The Collision With An Animal?

Yes, you can add comprehensive coverage to your policy after the collision with an animal. However, keep in mind that insurance companies often have waiting periods before new coverage takes effect, so it’s important to ask your agent about the specifics of your policy.

Comprehensive coverage can provide protection for a variety of incidents, including theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. Adding this coverage to your policy can give you peace of mind knowing that you’re protected from a wide range of potential risks.

It’s also important to note that comprehensive coverage typically comes with a deductible, which is the amount you’ll need to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Be sure to choose a deductible that you’re comfortable with and that fits your budget.

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How To File A Claim For Damage Caused By A Collision With An Animal

If you have either collision or comprehensive coverage and are involved in a collision with an animal, you will need to file a claim with Western National Insurance Group. The company will assign a claims adjuster to assess the damages and determine the amount of compensation you are eligible for.

It is important to note that if you swerve to avoid hitting an animal and end up causing damage to your vehicle, this may not be covered under your insurance policy. In this case, it is best to speak with your insurance agent to determine your options.

Additionally, if you hit a domestic animal, such as a dog or cat, it is important to report the incident to the local authorities and attempt to locate the owner. Depending on the circumstances, you may be held liable for any injuries or damages caused to the animal.

Common Exclusions In Car Insurance Policies: What You Need To Know

It’s important to note that car insurance policies may have common exclusions, such as damages caused by intentional acts, racing, or use of your vehicle for commercial purposes. It’s important to review your policy carefully and ask your agent about any exclusions that may apply to your coverage.

Another common exclusion in car insurance policies is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you are found to be driving under the influence and cause an accident, your insurance company may deny coverage for any damages or injuries that result from the accident.

Additionally, some car insurance policies may exclude coverage for damage caused by natural disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, or hurricanes. If you live in an area prone to these types of events, it’s important to consider purchasing additional coverage to protect your vehicle.

Tips For Avoiding Collisions With Animals While Driving

Although collisions with animals can sometimes be inevitable, there are some tips you can follow to reduce the risk of such incidents. Some tips include being extra vigilant during dawn and dusk when animals are most active, obeying speed limits, being aware of animal crossing signs, and keeping your headlights on.

Another important tip is to avoid distractions while driving, such as using your phone or eating. This will allow you to focus on the road and any potential hazards, including animals. Additionally, if you see an animal on or near the road, slow down and honk your horn to try to scare it away.

It’s also important to remember that different animals may require different actions. For example, if you encounter a deer, it’s best to slow down and stop if necessary, as they may freeze in the headlights. However, if you encounter a smaller animal like a rabbit or squirrel, it’s usually best to continue driving straight and avoid swerving, which could cause you to lose control of your vehicle.

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The Impact Of Filing A Claim On Your Car Insurance Premium

It’s also important to consider the impact of filing a claim on your car insurance premium. Your premium may increase after you file a claim, especially if it is your fault. However, if you have collision or comprehensive coverage, the cost of repairs may exceed the increase in your premium.

Another factor to consider is the frequency of claims. If you file multiple claims within a short period of time, your insurance company may view you as a high-risk driver and increase your premium even more. It’s important to weigh the cost of repairs against the potential increase in premium before deciding to file a claim.

Additionally, some insurance companies offer accident forgiveness programs, which means your premium won’t increase after your first at-fault accident. However, these programs often come with higher premiums to begin with, so it’s important to compare the cost of accident forgiveness versus the potential increase in premium after an accident.

Comparing Western National Insurance Group’S Car Insurance Policies With Other Providers

It’s always a good idea to compare different car insurance policies and providers to find the coverage that best fits your needs and budget. Western National Insurance Group is one of several providers in the market, and you should consider factors like rates, coverage options, and customer service when making your decision.

When comparing car insurance policies, it’s important to look beyond just the price and coverage options. You should also consider the reputation of the provider and their financial stability. Western National Insurance Group has been in business for over 100 years and has a strong financial rating, which can provide peace of mind knowing that they will be able to pay out claims if needed.

Another factor to consider when comparing car insurance providers is the discounts and benefits they offer. Western National Insurance Group offers a variety of discounts, such as safe driver discounts, multi-car discounts, and discounts for bundling home and auto insurance. They also offer benefits like roadside assistance and rental car coverage, which can be helpful in the event of an accident or breakdown.

Understanding The Role Of Deductibles In Car Insurance Claims

The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For collision and comprehensive coverage, you will select a deductible amount when you purchase your policy. Choosing a lower deductible can lead to higher premiums, while choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium but require more out-of-pocket expenses if an accident occurs.

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Reviewing Customer Experiences And Satisfaction With Western National Insurance Group’S Claims Process

Finally, it’s always wise to look at customer experiences and satisfaction with Western National Insurance Group’s claims process. You can check online reviews or ask for referrals from family and friends who have used the company’s services.

In conclusion, Western National Insurance Group’s liability coverage does not cover damage caused by a collision with an animal. However, collision and comprehensive coverages do provide protection in such instances, so it’s important to carefully review your policy and choose the coverage that best suits your needs.

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