What to Do If You and Your Dog Are Struck by a Car

Being struck by a car is terrifying. When it happens to both you and your pet, the trauma is multiplied. In an instant, a walk around the block or a trip to the park can turn into a life-altering event. Amid the chaos—sirens, pain, confusion—you’re not just thinking about your injuries, but also whether your beloved dog will survive.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we’ve helped families recover after devastating pedestrian accidents—including cases involving pets. If you and your pet were hit by a car, here’s what you need to know to protect your health, your pet’s life, and your legal rights.

Get Immediate Medical Help for Both of You

Call 911

After a pedestrian accident, always call 911. The dispatcher can send both paramedics for you and emergency veterinary support if available in your area (or guide you on where to go). Let responders know your pet was also injured.

Prioritize Safety

If you’re conscious and able to move, get to a safe location. Do not try to move your pet if they appear seriously injured—wait for responders unless there’s imminent danger (like traffic).

Don’t Delay Medical Treatment

You may be in shock and want to prioritize your pet, but even minor symptoms like dizziness, headache, or pain can signal serious injuries. Get yourself checked out at the emergency room while a family member or friend takes your dog to the vet. Documentation of your injuries is critical if you pursue a legal claim against the driver that hit you.

Assess Your Pet’s Condition

Signs of Trauma

Your pet may be limping, whining, not moving, or showing signs of shock like pale gums and rapid breathing. Dogs and cats may also try to hide. A study published in Veterinary Record found that over 80% of dogs survive car collisions if they receive prompt veterinary care.

Emergency Transport

Use a blanket, board, or a large carrier to gently move your pet. Don’t attempt to splint fractures or give medications unless instructed by a veterinarian. Call an emergency animal hospital on the way to let them know what happened so they can prepare for your arrival.

Document the Scene

If you’re able (or ask a bystander to help), gather evidence:

Photos: Of the accident scene, vehicle, injuries (yours and your pet’s), skid marks, and traffic signals.
Witnesses: Ask for names and contact information.
Driver’s Information: Name, phone number, license plate, insurance.

This evidence is crucial to your personal injury claim—and may also help recover the cost of veterinary treatment.

Know Your Rights as a Victim and Pet Owner

In Illinois, drivers have a legal duty to exercise care when driving near pedestrians and animals. If the driver was negligent—speeding, distracted, or failed to yield—you may have the right to:

Compensation for medical bills
Pain and suffering
Lost wages
Emotional distress
Property damage (pets are legally considered property in Illinois, but courts increasingly recognize their emotional value)

Insurance Coverage for Pet Injuries

Some auto insurance policies include coverage for pet injuries under collision or comprehensive provisions. If the at-fault driver has such a policy, it may pay for some or all of your vet bills. According to the Insurance Information Institute, some major insurers (like Progressive and Chubb) now offer pet injury coverage up to $1,000–$2,000 per incident.

Common Injuries After a Pedestrian Accident

Your Injuries

After being hit by a car, common injuries for pedestrians include:

Fractures (legs, ribs, hips)
Head or brain trauma
Spinal injuries
Lacerations and soft tissue damage
Psychological injuries (PTSD, anxiety)

Your Pet’s Injuries

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), pets involved in motor vehicle collisions often suffer:

Broken bones
Internal bleeding
Chest trauma (e.g., pneumothorax)
Shock
Head trauma
Lacerations

Some of these injuries may not show up immediately. Your pet should be monitored for at least 72 hours after the accident to make sure they’re okay.

Veterinary Bills and Emotional Toll of Seeing Your Dog Injured

The Cost of Veterinary Treatment

Veterinary costs can be substantial. According to the American Pet Products Association, emergency vet visits after trauma can range from:

$500–$1,500 for diagnostics and outpatient care
$3,000–$10,000+ for surgeries or hospitalization

Pet insurance may help—but many people don’t have it. In these cases, the at-fault driver may be liable for vet bills, especially if their negligence directly caused your dog’s injury.

The Emotional Impact

Pets are family. Seeing them in pain—especially when you’re also recovering—can be devastating. Courts are slowly recognizing this reality.

Talk to an Experienced Illinois Car Accident Lawyer Right Away

You may be entitled to more compensation than you think. At John J. Malm & Associates, we have successfully recovered damages not just for bodily injuries, but also:

Vet expenses
Long-term care costs for disabled pets
Mental anguish
Grief from the loss of a pet
Loss of companionship

Our top-rated Naperville car accident attorneys can help you gather police reports, medical records, and expert veterinary evaluations to support your claim.

“When you and your pet are struck by a car, the emotional and physical toll is overwhelming. At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand that your pet is family. We’re here to fight for justice, medical recovery, and peace of mind—for both of you.” — John J. Malm, Naperville pedestrian crash lawyer

Focus on Healing—Together

Your Recovery

Physical therapy, counseling, and rest are critical. Don’t rush it. Emotional support is just as important as physical recovery.

Your Pet’s Recovery

Follow-up Appointments: Ensure all medications and wound care are done properly.
Rehabilitation: Your pet may benefit from physical therapy, hydrotherapy, or mobility aids.
Emotional Care: Pets can develop anxiety or PTSD after trauma. Be patient, calm, and consistent. Animal behaviorists may help with recovery.

Prevent Future Incidents

Stay Visible

Wear reflective gear when walking at night.
Use LED leashes or collars for pets.

Use Crosswalks and Obey Signals

Always cross at designated areas and look both ways—even if you have the signal.

Train Pets for Safety

Teach “heel” and “wait” commands.
Never allow pets off-leash near roads.

Contact the Award-Winning Illinois Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

Being hit by a car is life-altering—but when your pet is involved too, the trauma runs even deeper. Your first priority should always be safety and emergency care—for both of you. But don’t overlook the emotional toll, the financial burden, or your legal rights.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand how devastating these incidents can be. Our team of dedicated car accident lawyers will guide you through every step—from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers and holding negligent drivers accountable. We fight for you—and the companions you love.

If you and your pet were struck by a car in Illinois, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you heal and get the compensation you deserve.