Pet Damaged Your Car? Here's How to Get It Serviced and What Insurance Covers
Published 15th January 2025Read Time 5 min
Traveling with your pets can bring moments of joy and companionship during the journey, however, it could result in wear and tear on your vehicles interior over time. Instances such as scratches or torn material are not uncommon when pets accompany you on trips. If you experience pet related damage to your car while traveling and require repairs or wish to understand your insurance coverage, for such situations, here is a helpful guide outlining the steps you can take to address these issues and prevent any further damages from occurring.
How Pets Can Damage Your Car
Pets, especially dogs and cats, may unintentionally damage your car in several ways:
Scratches: It’s not uncommon from your pets’ paws may result in markings, on the seats or doors of your car; they might even extend to the vehicles exterior if your furry friend tends to scratch near windows or while attempting to enter and exit the car.
Torn Upholstery: Pets can be rough, with upholstery materials like fabric and leather due to their nails and teeth causing damage, over time.
Chewed Seatbelts and Other Components: Pets, with a curios nature might take to nibbling on seatbelts or other parts of the car’s interior which could result in repairs. Or you may even need car service for pet damage to keep up the car maintenance.
AA Car Insurance
With AA, Car Insurance is personal. Whether you’re a new customer or existing AA member, you’re open to a host of benefits that are hard to find elsewhere.
Does Standard Car Insurance Cover Pet-Related Damage?
Most of the time car insurance doesn’t include coverage for damage caused by pets since its seen as wear and tear not typically covered by policies However some insurance companies do provide options, for pet damage coverage or additional policies to address such incidents.
Key Things to Look for in a Policy
Accidental Damage Coverage: Certain insurance policies might cover pet related damages under the category of ” damage.” It’s advisable to confirm this information with your insurance provider.
Pet Injury Cover: Certain auto insurance policies provide protection, for injuries resulting from accidents. They do not typically cover damages caused by general wear and tear occurrences.
Specific Pet Add-Ons: Some insurance companies provide options, for covering pet related incidents that could come in handy if you often take trips with your pets.
Getting Repairs for Pet Damage
If your pet has caused damage to your car, here’s a step-by-step guide on handling repairs.
Assess the Damage: Evaluate the extent of the harm by pinpointing the spots that require fixing. Small scrapes could be manageable on your own; however torn upholstery and chewed seatbelts might necessitate assistance, from a specialist.
Find the Right Car Service: Try searching for “Auto Repair Near Me” or “Car Repair, for Pet Damage” to find a company that focuses on fixing the insides of vehicles.
Estimate Repair Costs: Repair expenses for damages caused by pets differ depending on the extent of the damage incurred; fixing scratches could amount to around €50, to €200; on the other hand repairing upholstery may fall in the range of €200 to €500.
Check Insurance Coverage: If your insurance policy includes pet damage, document the damage and reach out to your insurer for instructions on filing a claim.
Preventing Future Pet Damage
Taking actions can help you avoid the inconvenience and cost of repairs. For those looking to safeguard their vehicle from damage caused by pets here are some suggestions:
Pet Seat Covers: These seat covers are simple to put in place. Can be easily removed for washing purposes to protect your seats, from scratches and stains.
Pet Crates or Carriers: If your pet is comfortable, crates can prevent damage by keeping your pet in one area.
Harnesses and Seatbelts: Secure harnesses reduce your pet’s movement, which helps limit scratching and chewing.
Using Insurance to Manage Pet Damage Costs
Both car insurance and pet insurance can provide peace of mind if you frequently travel with pets:
Car Insurance Ireland: Look for policies or add-ons that include accidental pet damage. This can be particularly useful for expensive repairs.
Pet Insurance Ireland: Some pet insurance policies cover injuries your pet might sustain while traveling, protecting both your pet’s health and your car from injury-related damage.
In summary; By taking some measures and being aware of your insurance choices can help maintain your vehicle in good condition and make travel pleasant and worry free for both you and your pet alike! Whether its using gear or locating the proper car service provider. You’ll be more equipped to manage any pet related issues while guarantee a safe trip, on each occasion.
