Car Insurance Jackson Mississippi MS

Reader’s Question:

If I’m traveling with my pet in the car, and we get into an accident, are we covered in Jackson, Mississippi?

Chris

Jackson, MS

Pet lovers in Jackson, Mississippi may ask, is it covered by my car insurance if I get into an accident while my pet is with me? The answer may depend on the cause of the accident. Riding in cars can be a little unsafe for pets (as well as distracting to the driver), especially because they ride without the benefit of seat belts. If someone crashes into you and causes injuries to you and your pet, you’re entitled to make a “third-party claim” on their policy for your pet’s medical bills. The other party’s liability insurance must put you “back where you were” before the accident.

On the other hand, if you are at-fault in an accident in which your pet is injured, you may want to check your auto policy for exclusions. Let’s say you crash into another car or a fence. Your collision insurance pays for the repairs to your own vehicle. You may have an exclusion under your collision insurance for damage to personal property that you’re transporting, whether it’s your antique vase or your pet. You won’t have a valid claim if your policy has such exclusion. In this case, if you don’t carry collision coverage at all, you must pay for all damage from the accident, including your car and pet.

 

Tags: auto insurance