We treat our pets as family members, so it comes as no surprise that we should take them anywhere we go. To the park, to the beach, to go camping. But to do that, they need to take a ride in a vehicle. So what happens if that vehicle ends up in a wreck? We do anything for the furry ones we love, so what happens if a pet gets injured in a car accident? Besides contacting the best personal injury attorney you know as soon as possible, read below to find out the next steps if your pet was injured in a car wreck.
While you can’t outright sue or file a claim for your injured pet, you can have the at-fault insurance company cover the cost of the veterinary bills. If you are determined not at fault for the wreck and the at-fault driver carries liability insurance, your pet’s veterinary treatment will be covered by the insurance. Pets are considered personal property, so they are automatically covered. Be aware, though, since compensation can vary.
If it so happens your pet should succumb to their injuries due to the wreck, the compensation recovery can become difficult. For example, the pet owner can fight to have the at-fault driver pay for the pet’s market value, as well as sentimental value, emotional distress or other non-economic damages, and even punitive damages.
If your pet is injured or ends up dying due to the wreck, your best accident attorney you call can help out with the legal matters. Experienced car accident lawyers have the knowledge and means to assist in your case and help you get the justice you deserve.
To make sure your pet is covered in your insurance, purchase an insurance company that will offer that feature since some companies don’t. For the auto insurance companies that do include pets in the coverage, pets will be listed under the “collision” protection at no extra cost. Limits for this usually range from $500 to $1000. This will help to cover your pet’s welfare since pet insurance doesn’t cover injuries, only illness. It’s important to note that this coverage should be explicitly stated in your policy.
If you or all members are hospitalized, preferably in one of the best hospitals in Texas, and aren’t able to care for your pet, the local chapters of the Humane Society will take care of this for you. They will keep your pet until you or a loved one can come to pick your pet up. This usually lasts for three days and at no cost.
If your pet was injured in a car accident and it wasn’t your fault, contact a car accident law firm as soon as possible. In the state of Texas, with some of the best hospitals in Houston and the best personal injury lawyers, there’s no shortage of help for your injured pet. To seek justice for your pet, contact your best car accident lawyer via phone, or Google best car accident lawyer near me or best personal injury lawyer near me.
