Hitting a deer with your car can be a frightening and stressful experience. Every year, thousands of drivers face this situation, especially during peak deer migration seasons. If you find yourself in this unfortunate scenario, it’s essential to stay calm, follow the proper steps, and know what to do next. This guide will help you navigate the situation safely and understand how to handle any damage to your vehicle.

1. Ensure Safety First

• Pull over to a safe location: If the accident occurred on a busy road, pull off to the side to avoid causing further accidents.
• Turn on your hazard lights: This will alert other drivers to your situation and prevent additional collisions.
• Assess the situation: Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately for medical assistance.

2. Stay Away from the Deer

Even if the deer appears injured or dead, it’s important not to approach it. A frightened or wounded deer can be unpredictable and dangerous. Keep a safe distance from the animal and wait for authorities or wildlife professionals to handle the situation.

3. Call the Police

In many areas, hitting a deer is considered a traffic accident, and you should report it to the authorities. Not only will this create an official record of the incident, but the police can also help direct traffic and handle the animal if it’s still alive. In some states, a police report may be required for insurance claims involving damage from wildlife collisions.

4. Document the Scene

Take pictures of your car, the deer, and any surrounding damage. Photographic evidence can be crucial when filing an insurance claim. Make sure to capture images of:

• Damage to your vehicle
• The road or any environmental factors (such as poor visibility or sharp turns)
• The deer (from a safe distance)

This documentation can help you provide your insurance company with a clear picture of what happened.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

After ensuring everyone’s safety and documenting the accident, it’s time to contact your insurance company. Let them know about the accident as soon as possible, and provide all necessary details, including photos, police reports, and a description of the event.

Does Insurance Cover Deer Collisions?

Yes, in most cases, your car insurance will cover damage from hitting a deer, but it depends on your policy. Typically, this type of damage falls under comprehensive coverage. Here’s what you should know:

• Comprehensive coverage pays for damage caused by non-collision incidents such as hitting an animal, theft, or natural disasters.
• Collision coverage covers damages caused by an accident with another vehicle or object, such as a tree or guardrail.

If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance will likely cover the cost of repairs minus your deductible. If your car is deemed a total loss, the insurance company will pay you the car’s actual cash value (ACV), minus the deductible.

6. Take Your Car to a Trusted Repair Shop

Once your insurance claim is filed, it’s time to repair your vehicle. Many insurance companies have partnerships with specific auto body shops, but you may have the option to choose your own repair service. Ensure the shop you choose specializes in the type of damage your car sustained and get an estimate before moving forward with repairs.

7. Preventing Future Deer Accidents

While you can’t always avoid hitting a deer, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• Be cautious during peak deer season: Deer are most active during fall, particularly in November. They are also more likely to appear on the road during dusk and dawn.
• Use high beams when possible: High beams can help you see farther ahead and spot animals on the roadside. Be sure to dim your lights for oncoming traffic.
• Watch for deer crossing signs: These signs are placed in high-risk areas where deer frequently cross.
• If you see one deer, expect more: Deer often travel in groups, so if you see one, there may be others nearby.

Final Thoughts

Hitting a deer can be a distressing experience, but knowing what steps to take can make the situation less overwhelming. Always prioritize safety, report the incident, document the damage, and contact your insurance company for help. By following these guidelines, you’ll be better prepared to handle the aftermath of a deer collision and get back on the road safely.

If you need more information or want to review your comprehensive insurance policy, reach out to Famous & Spang Insurance. We’re here to assist you and provide the coverage you need for life’s unexpected moments.o reach out to us at Famous & Spang Insurance. We’re dedicated to ensuring your pets are covered for life’s unexpected moments.