The moment you step out of your car, you’re not just leaving your vehicle behind, you’re also leaving it vulnerable to various forms of damage. One of the most unexpected and frustrating forms of damage is animal damage. From scratches to dents, and even full-blown collisions, animals can cause significant harm to your car. But, do you know if your car insurance covers animal damage? Specifically, does Geico cover animal damage? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of car insurance and explore the answers to these questions.
What is Animal Damage?
Animal damage refers to any type of damage caused to a vehicle by an animal. This can include scratches, dents, and even full-blown collisions. The most common culprits behind animal damage are deer, raccoons, and squirrels, but it’s not limited to these species. Other animals like dogs, cats, and even birds can also cause damage to your car.
Does Geico Cover Animal Damage?
Geico, like most car insurance companies, has its own set of policies and procedures when it comes to animal damage. According to Geico’s website, animal damage is considered a comprehensive coverage, which means it’s not included in the standard liability coverage. However, it’s possible to add comprehensive coverage to your policy, which would include animal damage.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive coverage is an optional add-on to your car insurance policy that covers damages caused by events other than accidents, such as theft, vandalism, fire, and animal damage. If you have comprehensive coverage, Geico will cover the cost of repairs or replacement of your vehicle if it’s damaged by an animal.
What’s Covered Under Comprehensive Coverage?
- Animal damage, including scratches, dents, and collisions
- Theft or attempted theft
- Vandalism
- Fires or explosions
- Floods or earthquakes
What’s Not Covered Under Comprehensive Coverage?
While comprehensive coverage covers a wide range of events, there are some exclusions to be aware of. For example: (See Also: How to Cancel Car Insurance Malaysia? Easy Steps)
- Accidents or collisions with other vehicles or objects
- Wear and tear or maintenance issues
- Acts of war or terrorism
- Intentional damage or vandalism by the policyholder
How to File a Claim for Animal Damage with Geico
If your vehicle is damaged by an animal, you’ll need to file a claim with Geico. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Gather Evidence
Take photos of the damage and any relevant documentation, such as witness statements or police reports. This will help support your claim and provide evidence of the damage.
Step 2: Contact Geico
Call Geico’s claims department or file a claim online. Be prepared to provide the following information:
- Policy number
- Vehicle information
- Details of the incident, including the date, time, and location
- Photos and documentation of the damage
Step 3: Get Your Vehicle Repaired
Once you’ve filed your claim, Geico will assign an adjuster to assess the damage. They’ll work with you to get your vehicle repaired or replaced. You may need to get multiple estimates from repair shops before Geico approves the repairs.
Recap: Does Geico Cover Animal Damage?
In summary, Geico does cover animal damage under comprehensive coverage, but only if you have this add-on to your policy. Comprehensive coverage is an optional add-on that covers damages caused by events other than accidents, including animal damage. If you have comprehensive coverage, Geico will cover the cost of repairs or replacement of your vehicle if it’s damaged by an animal. Remember to file a claim with Geico and gather evidence to support your claim. (See Also: What Is the Normal Excess on Car Insurance? Understanding Your Policy)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the deductible for animal damage claims with Geico?
A: The deductible for animal damage claims with Geico varies depending on your policy and state. Typically, the deductible is around $100-$500.
Q: Can I add comprehensive coverage to my Geico policy?
A: Yes, you can add comprehensive coverage to your Geico policy. This will provide coverage for damages caused by events other than accidents, including animal damage.
Q: How do I know if I have comprehensive coverage on my Geico policy?
A: Check your Geico policy documents or contact Geico’s customer service to confirm if you have comprehensive coverage. You can also log in to your Geico account online to view your policy details.
Q: Can I file a claim for animal damage if I hit an animal with my car?
A: No, if you hit an animal with your car, you should file a claim under your liability coverage, not comprehensive coverage. Liability coverage will cover damages to other vehicles or property, but not your own vehicle. (See Also: How to Pay for Car Damage Without Insurance? Affordable Solutions)
Q: How long does it take for Geico to process animal damage claims?
A: The processing time for Geico’s animal damage claims varies depending on the complexity of the claim and the availability of evidence. Typically, it takes around 1-2 weeks for Geico to process a claim, but it may take longer in some cases.