Does Car Insurance Cover Bear Damage in the USA? (Guide 2023)

If you live in an area with bears, you may wonder if your car insurance policy covers damage caused by a bear. Bears can easily break into cars to get food and can cause extensive damage. So does car insurance provide protection in these scenarios? Here’s what you need to know about filing a claim for bear damage.

Comprehensive Coverage is the Solution:

Yes, car insurance covers bear damage in the USA, but only if you have comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive coverage is an optional type of car insurance that covers damage to your vehicle from events other than collisions, such as theft, vandalism, fire, and animal damage.

If you hit a bear while driving, your comprehensive coverage will pay for the repairs to your vehicle, minus your deductible. Your deductible is the amount of money you have to pay out of pocket before your insurance company starts paying.

Comprehensive coverage can also cover damage to your car if a bear breaks into it. For example, if a bear tears open your door and damages your interior, your comprehensive coverage should pay for the repairs.

But keep in mind, comprehensive coverage does not cover all types of bear damage. For example, if a bear chews on your tires or scratches your paint, your insurance company may not cover the damage. This is because these types of damage are considered to be normal wear and tear.

6 Steps for Filing a Claim for Bear Damage:

If a bear damages your car, here are the steps to take:

1. Document the damage

Take photos and videos showing all areas affected both inside and outside the vehicle.

2. File a police report

Contact local law enforcement to file an incident report. This creates an official record of the damage.

3. Contact your insurance provider

Notify them of your intent to file a claim for bear damage. Provide details of what happened and share the police report number.

4. Bring your car to an approved repair shop

The insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. They will work with the repair shop on the costs.

5. Pay your deductible

Comprehensive claims typically have a deductible, often $500-$1,000. You’ll need to pay this amount out of pocket.

6. Get your vehicle repaired

The insurance company will cover repair costs beyond your deductible. Make sure all damage is fixed before collecting your vehicle.

For your Interest:

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• Does Home Insurance Cover Birds and Animals Damage?

Damage Prevention Tips:

To avoid potential claims, be proactive about deterring bears from targeting your vehicle. Here are some tips:

1. Don’t leave food in your car, even crumbs. Thoroughly clean the interior.
2. Avoid parking near dumpsters or woods. Bears follow food smells.
3. Install motion-sensor lights on your garage or carport.
4. Use bear-repellent sprays on and around your vehicle.
5. Add extra locks/bars to doors & windows if possible.

Very unfortunate, bear damage is a possibility for cars parked in certain areas. Review your insurance policy and utilize preventative measures to be prepared. Comprehensive coverage provides the protection you need in these scenarios.