What Happens If You Accidentally Run Over a Dog in TN?

Animals of all types, including dogs, cats, deer, squirrels, and birds, are often hard to see when you are driving, or they may come completely out of nowhere. Animal collisions are all too common, with insurance company State Farm estimating that over 1.9 million animal collision insurance claims were filed in the U.S. between July 2021 and June 2022 alone. And while deer collisions may come to mind first when it comes to accidentally hitting an animal, we want to see what happens when you accidentally run over a dog.

A quick Google search will tell you that dogs being hit by vehicles is common, both within the United States and internationally. Hitting a dog accidentally can be a stressful situation, especially as you may not be sure what happens next.

Below, we take a look at what happens if you accidentally run over a dog and how to deal with the situation.

Accidentally Hitting a Dog: Understanding the Legal Implications and Responsibilities

Accidentally hitting a dog can be a traumatic experience for both the driver and the pet owner. It is a situation that often involves a mix of emotional distress, legal concerns, and potential financial consequences.

Emotional Implications of Hitting a Dog

• Grief and Guilt: The loss of a beloved pet can be a deeply emotional experience. Drivers may feel a sense of guilt or remorse for the accident.
• Trauma: Witnessing an animal’s injury or death can be traumatic for some individuals.
• Compassion for the Owner: The driver may empathize with the pet owner’s grief and loss.

Legal Implications of Hitting a Dog

• Property Damage: If the dog is injured or killed, the owner may seek compensation for veterinary bills, property damage (e.g., if the dog was hit in a driveway), or emotional distress.
• Vehicle Damage: In some cases, the dog’s impact on the vehicle may result in damage, which could lead to insurance claims.
• Traffic Violations: Depending on the circumstances, the driver may face traffic violations, such as reckless driving or failure to yield.

What to Do If You Accidentally Hit a Dog

In the immediate aftermath of accidentally running over an animal, here are some common steps to take:

1. Pull over to the side of the road when you can do so safely and do not leave the scene.
2. Check to see if you have been injured in any way. Depending on the size of the dog and how you accidentally hit them, you may sustain injuries.
3. Check the dog. If you can, move the dog off the road or if it is in a location where it might obstruct traffic.
4. In some cases, the dog’s owner may be around. If they are not present, check with the dog for tags to contact the owner.
5. Get in touch with police and animal services like the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). This will allow you to report the incident to both the police and animal services and they will be able to take the dog to a veterinarian for medical care.
6. If needed, seek medical attention for yourself.

Does Car Insurance Cover Hitting a Dog?

 Most types of comprehensive car insurance coverage will cover damage sustained to your vehicle caused by animals, including dogs. You may want to check on the specifics of what your car insurance will cover with your insurance provider.

Depending on whether or not the dog’s owner can be located, their insurance may cover any damage to your vehicle that is sustained. There are state laws in place that address dogs being leashed and being allowed to run at large. In the summer of 2023, there were even changes made to Nashville animal ordinances that require owners to have “physical control” of their animals when off of their own property.

These laws may hold the owner responsible for their dog running free.

What Happens Legally If You Hit a Dog?

Depending on the circumstances of the situation, what happens after you accidentally run over a dog may vary.

If your actions as a driver are found to be negligent, you may be held liable for any damages to the dog and its owner such as veterinarian bills and associated losses. As outlined under Tennessee Code 44-17-403, if someone’s pet is killed or has sustained injuries that result in death “caused by the unlawful and intentional, or negligent, act of another or the animal of another,” the individual who caused the actions may be held liable for up to $5,000.

But if your actions are not found to be negligent, you may have grounds for damages against the dog’s owner.

We suggest consulting with a Nashville car accident lawyer following any accident that involves a dog as they will be able to provide you with legal advice specific to your situation.

Steps to Take After Accidentally Hitting a Dog

1. Ensure Safety:

• Check for Injuries: Assess the safety and safety of your passengers. If anyone is injured, call the emergency services immediately.
• Check the Dog: If the dog is still alive, approach cautiously and check for injuries. Avoid touching the animal if it appears aggressive or injured.

1. Contact Authorities:

• Call 911: If there are injuries or the dog is deceased, contact emergency services immediately.
• Report the Accident: Inform the local police or animal control about the incident. Provide your contact information and a description of the accident.

1. Seek Veterinary Care:

• Contact a Veterinarian: If the dog is injured, locate a nearby veterinarian or animal hospital. Provide them with your location and a brief description of the dog’s condition.
• Offer Assistance: If possible, offer to transport the injured dog to the veterinarian.

1. Document the Incident:

• Take Photos: If safe to do so, take photos of the accident scene, the injured dog, and any damage to your vehicle.
• Gather Information: Collect contact information for any witnesses or involved parties.
• Note Details: Write down the date, time, and location of the accident.

1. Notify Insurance:

• Contact Your Insurer: Inform your insurance company about the incident. Provide them with the necessary details and documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hitting a Dog with a Car

What are the legal implications of hitting a dog with a car?

The legal implications of hitting a dog with a car can vary. You may be held liable for damages if your actions are deemed negligent, potentially covering veterinary bills and other losses. In some cases, you might face traffic violations. Conversely, if the dog’s owner was negligent (e.g., the dog was running at large), you may have grounds for damages against them.

What is my responsibility if I hit a dog?

Your primary responsibility is to ensure safety and not leave the scene. Check for injuries to yourself and passengers, and then cautiously check the dog. Contacting authorities (police, animal control) and seeking veterinary care for the animal are crucial steps. Documenting the incident and notifying your insurance company are also important.

What happens if I hit a dog and the owner is not present?

If the dog’s owner is not present, check the dog for identification tags to contact them. If you cannot locate the owner, it is essential to contact police or animal services. They can help identify the owner and ensure the dog receives necessary medical attention.

Will my car insurance cover damage from hitting a dog?

Typically, comprehensive car insurance coverage will cover damage to your vehicle caused by hitting an animal, including a dog. It’s advisable to check the specifics of your policy with your insurance provider.

What if the dog’s owner is at fault for me hitting their dog?

If the dog’s owner is found to be at fault, for instance, if their dog was running at large in violation of local ordinances, you may have grounds to seek compensation from them for any damages to your vehicle or other losses incurred.

Should I call a lawyer if I hit a dog?

Consulting with a Nashville car accident lawyer is recommended, especially if there are injuries, significant property damage, or legal complexities. An experienced lawyer can provide specific legal advice tailored to your situation and help navigate the legal process.

What happens following the accidental hitting of a dog can be confusing, especially if you are unsure of exactly what your legal rights are. But that is where the help of an experienced Nashville car accident lawyer can come in.

Further Questions? Consult with a Nashville Car Accident Lawyer

What happens following the accidental hitting of a dog can be confusing, especially if you are unsure of exactly what your legal rights are. But that is where the help of an experienced Nashville car accident lawyer can come in.

Here at Heit Law, LLC, Corey Heit is here to help. He has represented personal injury clients for years and has a dedicated focus on personal injury law. He will be able to answer any questions you may have if you have recently hit a dog on accident.