It’s no surprise that many of us are concerned about hitting a dog while driving. Knowing you’ve hurt someone else’s loyal companion is a terrifying thought that hopefully, you’ll never have to face. It can be a traumatic experience. That is why knowing what to do is critical. Here at Mandler & Sieger, LLP, a Brentwood car accident lawyer will help you handle all types of motor vehicle cases. If you, a family member, or a friend have been involved in a motor vehicle accident with an animal, please contact our office and we will gladly assist you. But first, find out below what you need to know about hitting a dog with your car.
Navigate Your Car Accident Claim with Confidence – Find a Lawyer in Brentwood Today
Each circumstance is different, but there are several general steps you can take to assist:
- If at all possible, avoid moving the dog: Injured dogs can be combative and unpredictable in their behavior. If it is feasible, avoid moving the dog to prevent being bitten or causing further harm to it. If the dog must be moved from the road, cover it with a blanket, jacket, or other covering to protect both the dog and yourself.
- Contact the police: Never leave the scene of an accident until you’ve notified the cops or animal control. This is a legal requirement in many states, and simply driving away could land you in legal trouble. Pets are considered personal property in most states, so any injuries or loss of the pet may be considered property damage if you are responsible for a hit and run involving a pet. You could also be charged with animal cruelty if you flee the scene after hitting a pet.
- Contact the owner: If the dog has a tag with contact details, you should notify the owner of the accident.
What You Need To Know About Hitting a Dog With Your Car
- Insurance can pay for vehicle damage caused by a dog or other animal. After filing a claim, you would pay your deductible, and your insurer would cover the rest of the repair costs. Your insurance company may also contact the dog’s owner and request that their insurance cover the cost of repairing your vehicle. This can happen when the pet owner is found to be at fault for not having their dog under control at the time of the accident.
- If the dog is running free when you hit it, the owner is most likely liable for the dog’s care and vet bills. However, if you intentionally hit a pet or drive recklessly, you may be liable for the dog’s vet bills as well as compensation if the dog dies.
- If the dog’s owner cannot be found, it is best to contact the police or animal control rather than take it to a veterinarian yourself. This ensures that the animal receives the care it requires without you having to assume legal and financial obligations for its well-being.
- If you are found to be at fault for the accident due to drunk driving or consciously drifting to hit the dog, you may be required to compensate the owners. Intentional damage is frequently excluded by insurers, so if you deliberately harm a pet, you’ll almost certainly have to pay for any vet bills, end-of-life care, or burial costs yourself.
Hitting a dog with your car can be a traumatic experience for both you and the pet. If you’re involved in an animal accident, it’s important to know your rights and what steps to take. A Brentwood car accident lawyer from Mandler Sieger can help you navigate this difficult situation and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for more information.
Anyone can be involved in a car accident. Since we’re talking about accidents involving vehicles and people, it’s entirely possible to hit a dog with your car. If this has happened to you, it’s normal to be confused and scared, but you should seek help from a Brentwood car accident lawyer and discuss your case with them.
Get the Justice You Deserve with a Brentwood Car Accident Lawyer
By choosing the highest quality auto car accident lawyer you’re deciding to take the right course of action with the best results. Our team of professionals will have you back to work and to the daily activities you love without the stress of any traumatic event. Visit our website or contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure that your case is in the right hands!