As fall arrives and the days get shorter with each passing day, drivers must stay alert during this season as deer, whether it be white-tail, mule deer, or elk, frequently cross roads when you least expect it, especially during the early morning and evening hours. The peak time for deer activity coincides with their mating season, which usually falls between October and early December. Male deer are known to be more active and unpredictable during this period when venturing out in search of a mate. This increased movement significantly raises the risk of collisions between vehicles and deer.
Accidents involving deer can be hazardous and expensive, ranging from marks and scrapes to extensive front-end damage or even a car or truck that is considered to be totaled. Although preventing these accidents is preferred, they can occur suddenly without warning, leaving drivers with minimal opportunity to respond.
So I Hit a Deer – Now What?
Suppose you are unfortunate enough to hit a deer while driving your car. In that case, it is essential to know the necessary steps to take after the fact! Here are some crucial guidelines to keep in mind;
- Your first concern should be your safety above all else. Pull over to the side of the road immediately. Switch on your hazard lights to warn other drivers of the situation. Ensure that your vehicle is off the road to prevent additional accidents.
- Check for any injuries by examining yourself and all occupants in the vehicle to ensure everyone is safe and uninjured after the collision.
- Contact the authorities if you come across any wildlife-related accidents. It’s important to report these incidents promptly for documentation and safety reasons to protect other drivers in the area.
- Capture the moment by documenting the situation. Pictures of the damage to your car and the surrounding area where the deer incident occurred are helpful for future reference when dealing with insurance matters.
- Get in touch with your insurance agent to initiate the claims procedure. They will provide instructions on the required documentation, like photographs and the police report.
What is Comprehensive Coverage?
Knowing how comprehensive insurance works is essential should you hit a deer. Comprehensive coverage is sometimes referred to as “Other than Collision” coverage. There’s a misconception among drivers that their regular auto insurance will cover all the costs should such an incident occur; however, this may not always be the case. Liability coverage, which is mandatory in most states, deals explicitly with damages you have caused to others. On the other hand, collision coverage is for accidents involving other vehicles and structures, like guardrails. Damage resulting from a collision with an animal, like a deer, is covered by your comprehensive coverage.
Comprehensive coverage includes protection for damages to your vehicle not caused by a collision. Examples include theft, vandalism, or accidents involving wildlife and weather conditions.
Filing an Insurance Claim
Fixing a car following a deer collision can be pricey. Even a slight run-in with a deer might lead to damaged headlights, a dented hood, or shattered windows. Severe impacts could harm the engine sensors or safety components such as airbags. On average, fixing a car-deer collision costs between $2,500 and $6,000, or more in some cases. The price could climb higher for larger vehicles, like trucks or SUVs. Something else to consider is that many of today’s cars come with technology that can lead to much higher repair expenses; hence, another reason to opt for comprehensive.
Summary
As we wrap up our discussion, here’s a reminder: With deer becoming more active in the fall season, it’s crucial to drive cautiously and remember the perks of having full insurance coverage on your side. It helps with the cost of any deer-related incidents but also gives you that added reassurance as you travel through busy roads during this time of heightened activity. Remember to stay vigilant and be ready for any deer encounters on the road – both your safety and your finances will appreciate it.
