Auto Insurance for Pets: a Growing Trend

*Updated September 29th, 2025

As animal lovers, most of us take good care of our pets: we feed them quality food, make sure they get exercise and attention, train for good “house manners,” and keep them safely restrained when riding in the car. Until relatively recently, though, if a dog or cat was injured in a car accident, they were typically treated as “personal property” under an auto insurance insurance policy—and payouts were inconsistent or denied altogether.

It’s only in the last few years that insurance companies started addressing what happens when a pet is injured in a crash. Progressive was among the first big moves, adding optional pet injury coverage to car insurance policies. Since then, other car insurance companies have followed with benefits for dogs and cats, often at no extra cost and with set limits to help with an eligible vet bill after an accident.

Who Offers Pet Injury Coverage Under Car Insurance?

Progressive led the way, and others soon followed. USA Today reported that additional carriers began offering pet injury benefits—some at no additional cost—typically paying a set amount per accident if a dog or cat is injured in an accident. With nearly 200 million licensed drivers on U.S. roads, competition has encouraged more insurance providers to offer pet coverage within standard auto insurance packages.

Tip: Not every insurer or state includes pet injury coverage. Always check if pet injury coverage is included on your policy declarations or ask your agent.

How This Coverage Works (and When It Applies)

• What it is: Pet injury coverage is a benefit within some car insurance policies that helps pay eligible veterinary expenses if your pet is injured in an accident while riding in the car with you.

• What it covers: Policies vary, but coverage may reimburse a portion of veterinary bills for accident coverage (not illness). Some carriers note they cover pets that are dogs and cats; exotic pets are often excluded.

• Limits & deductible: Expect a defined coverage limit (e.g., $500–$1,000 per accident). Whether a deductible applies depends on the insurer.

• Which coverage triggers it: In some policies, collision coverage must be in force for pet injury benefits to apply.

• Not guaranteed: Because rules vary by state and company, there’s no universal guarantee of coverage—confirm with your insurance provider.

Pet Insurance vs. Car Insurance: Do You Need Both?

Even if your car insurance includes pet injury coverage, it’s limited to accidents involving your vehicle. A standalone pet insurance (aka pet health insurance) policy can help with broader pet insurance coverage—such as accident and illness care, diagnostics, medications, surgery, and more—regardless of where the pet is hurt or becomes ill.

• Consider separate pet insurance if you want peace of mind beyond car-related accidents.

• Look at insurance plans that fit the level of coverage you want: accident and illness pet insurance, accident-only, or plans that include routine care.

• Premiums may vary by the age of your pet, breed of your pet, and the type of coverage you select.

Filing a Claim: Pet Injury Coverage and Pet Insurance Plans

If your pet is injured in an accident:

1. Get veterinary care immediately and save all itemized invoices.

2. For car insurance pet injury claims, contact your insurer to verify eligibility and how to file a claim for eligible vet bills.

3. If you also have a pet insurance policy, submit a separate claim under your pet insurance plan for accident or illness expenses covered by that policy.

If your carrier doesn’t offer pet coverage, you might still try a property-damage claim—but outcomes vary widely. That’s why many pet owners choose affordable pet insurance for predictable protection.

Quick Answers to Common Questions About Pet Insurance and Car Insurance

• Is my pet automatically covered by car insurance?
  Not always. Some auto insurance policies include pet injury coverage, others don’t. Confirm whether your insurance policy explicitly cover[s] pets and note the coverage limit.

• How does pet insurance work with car insurance if my pet is hurt?
  Car insurance may help with pet injury costs from the crash itself (up to its limit). Your pet insurance can help with broader veterinary care, depending on your pet insurance coverage and deductible.

• Does pet insurance cover pre-accident issues?
  Most pet insurers exclude pre-existing conditions. Review each pet insurance policy carefully.

• What if I often drive with my pet?
  If you often drive with your pet, verify whether your auto insurance provides pet injury coverage, and consider pet insurance for added protection and peace of mind.

Bottom Line: Find the Right Coverage for Your Pet

Whether or not your pet is sufficiently covered by car insurance depends on your carrier and state. Pet injury coverage can help with the immediate veterinary expenses in the case of an accident, but many owners still consider separate pet insurance to avoid a financial burden without a pet insurance plan. Compare insurance plans, confirm what your insurance agency offers, and choose the coverage that fits your needs—and your pet.