Car Accidents – What If My Dog is Involved? 

There are about 20-50 million people who are injured due to car accidents each year. This is just in the United States alone! However, this only takes people into account, not our four-legged friends. It is important to know that dogs are not immune to getting into car accidents, and it’s completely out of their control. You may be wondering what you should do if your dog is in the car with you if you get into an accident. This isn’t a pleasant scenario, but it is good to think about.

There are a few things you should do right away if your dog was in the car with you after an accident. It is important to make sure that they are okay. Take a close look at them and assess them for any injuries. Dogs can experience serious injuries from car accidents! Some of the most common issues that they face are fractured bones and trauma to the head.

Just like you would in any type of car accident, you will need to file an insurance claim. Most insurance companies consider pets “property” so they may be willing to pay for some of your pet’s veterinarian bills and/or reimburse you for your pet’s market value if they pass away due to the accident.

There are many things that you can do to keep your dog safe while they are traveling with you in the car. We know that accidents aren’t completely avoidable even if you practice safe driving habits, but you can do your best to ensure their safety along the way. Keeping them in a crate which is lined with soft blankets will add cushioning. You may also consider installing a back seat barrier and using a dog seatbelt or harness. Important! Do not allow your dog to hang out the window. As cute as it may be, this is a risk. Ensure that your dog is always in the vehicle.

We hope that you never have to experience a car accident, let alone with your four-legged companion. However, in the unfortunate event that it happens, it is best to know you and your dog’s rights. Safety is always a top priority, but that doesn’t mean you will avoid those drivers who do not feel the same. Stay safe out there!