Animal vs. Auto: Insurance Coverage Essentials for Georgia and South Carolina

Did you know Georgia ranks 9th in the country for the number of animal collision claims according to the latest data?

With the sun setting earlier and earlier, the potential for colliding with animals on the road rise rapidly in the fall.  You can probably guess that the highest incident rate is with deer.  They are on the move primarily from dusk to dawn, which happens to be when visibility is lowest while driving.
​
Costs from an animal collision vary widely, depending on the situation, but can vary from a scratched bumper to totaling your vehicle.  What insurance coverage do you need to cover an animal strike?

One of the best ways to protect yourself financially from this risk is by carrying comprehensive coverage on your auto policy.

Unlike liability (which covers damage you cause to others) or collision (which covers crashes with other vehicles), comprehensive insurance protects your car from non-collision events like fire, theft, hail, vandalism—and animal strikes.

If you hit an animal and you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance will pay for the repairs to your vehicle (minus your deductible). Without it, you’re responsible for the full cost out of pocket, which can quickly run into thousands.

If you or your passengers are hurt in an animal accident, medical payments coverage (MedPay) may help with medical bills.  MedPay is optional in Georgia and South Carolina.

Here are a few additional tips for auto policyholders:

• Check Your Deductible: A very high deductible could mean paying a lot out of pocket after an animal strike. Review it with your agent to make sure it’s reasonable for your budget.
• Rental Car Coverage: Animal collisions can put your vehicle in the shop for weeks. Adding rental reimbursement coverage ensures you won’t be left without transportation.
• Comprehensive vs. Liability-Only Policies: If you drive an older car, you may have dropped comprehensive to save money. But ask yourself: could you afford to replace your car if it’s totaled by an animal? Sometimes the savings aren’t worth the risk.
• Heightened Awareness: Being alert, using high beams when safe, and slowing down in wooded areas can lower your chances of an accident.

Bottom line: Comprehensive coverage is the only way your insurance will pay for animal-related damage. Talk with me to make sure your policy includes the right protection for both your vehicle and your health: 706-726-1446.