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Will Insurance Cover a Deer Accident? The Expert Breakdown

Yes, in most cases, your insurance will cover a deer accident, but the type of coverage that applies depends on your specific policy and the extent of the damage. Typically, Comprehensive Coverage is what protects you from collisions with animals, including deer. Let’s dive deeper into the complexities and nuances of navigating insurance claims after a deer strike.

Understanding Insurance Coverage for Deer Accidents

Encountering a deer on the road is a common, and often frightening, experience for drivers. The aftermath can leave you with a damaged vehicle and a mountain of questions about insurance. Knowing what to expect from your insurance company can significantly ease the stress during this challenging time.

The Role of Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive Coverage is your primary safeguard against deer-related accidents. It covers damages resulting from events outside of collisions with other vehicles, such as:

Natural disasters: Hail, flooding, wind damage
Vandalism and theft
Falling objects: Tree branches, debris
Animal collisions: Deer, elk, moose, etc.

If you have Comprehensive Coverage, your insurance will likely pay for the repairs to your vehicle, minus your deductible. The deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in.

What About Collision Coverage?

While Comprehensive Coverage is the go-to for deer accidents, Collision Coverage might come into play in specific scenarios. For instance, if you swerve to avoid a deer and hit a tree or another object, Collision Coverage would likely be used. Collision Coverage covers damages resulting from collisions with other vehicles or objects, regardless of fault.

Liability Coverage: When It Doesn’t Apply

Liability Coverage is designed to protect you if you cause an accident and damage another person’s vehicle or property, or if you cause bodily injury to another person. In a deer accident where you only damage your own vehicle, Liability Coverage will not apply. It does not cover damages to your vehicle.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

In the context of a deer accident, Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage is generally not applicable. This coverage protects you if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages. Since a deer isn’t another driver, this coverage doesn’t come into play.

Filing a Claim After a Deer Accident: The Step-by-Step Guide

Safety First: Prioritize your safety and the safety of others. Pull over to a safe location, turn on your hazard lights, and assess the situation.
Call the Authorities: Report the accident to the police, especially if there’s significant damage or if the deer is blocking the roadway.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the deer (if it’s safe to do so), and the surrounding area. This documentation will be crucial when filing your insurance claim.
Gather Information: Exchange information with any other drivers involved, although this is less likely in a deer-only collision. Obtain the police report number for your records.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the information you’ve gathered, including photos, police report number, and a detailed description of the incident.
Cooperate with the Adjuster: Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. Cooperate fully with the adjuster, providing any additional information they request.
Get an Estimate: Obtain an estimate for the repairs from a reputable auto body shop. Your insurance company may have preferred shops, but you generally have the right to choose your own.
Review Your Policy: Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of your insurance policy, including your deductible, coverage limits, and any exclusions.

Factors Affecting Your Claim

Several factors can influence the outcome of your insurance claim after a deer accident:

Policy Coverage: As previously mentioned, having Comprehensive Coverage is crucial.
Deductible: The amount of your deductible will impact how much you pay out-of-pocket.
State Laws: State laws regarding deer accidents and insurance coverage can vary.
Claim History: Your past claims history might influence your insurance rates.
Policy Exclusions: Be aware of any exclusions in your policy that could affect your claim.

Deer Accident Prevention Tips

While insurance can help cover the costs of a deer accident, prevention is always the best approach:

Be vigilant, especially during dawn and dusk: Deer are most active during these times.
Reduce speed in deer-prone areas: Heed warning signs and drive cautiously.
Scan the sides of the road: Watch for deer near roadways.
Use high beams when appropriate: High beams can help you spot deer earlier.
If you see one deer, expect more: Deer often travel in groups.
Don’t swerve excessively: Swerving can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Brake firmly and try to stay in your lane.
Use your horn: A short blast of the horn might startle a deer and cause it to move away from the road.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Insurance and Deer Accidents

1. Will my insurance rates go up after hitting a deer?

Typically, a Comprehensive Coverage claim for a deer accident should not cause your insurance rates to increase. Insurance companies generally view these incidents as “no-fault” accidents, meaning you weren’t responsible for causing the collision. However, it’s always best to confirm with your insurance company, as policies and practices can vary.

2. What if the damage is less than my deductible?

If the cost to repair your vehicle is less than your deductible, you’ll be responsible for paying the full amount out-of-pocket. In this scenario, it doesn’t make sense to file an insurance claim, as you won’t receive any financial assistance from your insurance company.

3. Do I have to report a deer accident to my insurance company?

While you might not be legally obligated to report a deer accident if there’s no significant damage and no other vehicles are involved, it’s generally advisable to do so. Reporting the incident creates a record of the event, which can be helpful if you discover additional damage later on. Moreover, some policies might require you to report all accidents, regardless of the extent of the damage.

4. What if I swerve to avoid a deer and hit something else?

If you swerve to avoid a deer and hit another object, such as a tree or a guardrail, your Collision Coverage will likely apply. In this scenario, the accident is considered a collision with an object, rather than a collision with an animal. Your deductible will apply, and your rates could be affected.

5. Can I claim the deer meat after hitting it?

State laws regarding the possession of deer carcasses vary. Some states allow you to claim the deer meat, while others prohibit it. Contact your local Department of Natural Resources or wildlife agency to inquire about the regulations in your area. Even if allowed, exercise caution when handling the carcass due to potential disease and safety concerns.

6. What documentation do I need to file a deer accident claim?

Police report: If you filed one.
Photos of the damage: Clear and comprehensive images of your vehicle and the accident scene.
Repair estimates: Obtain written estimates from reputable auto body shops.
Insurance policy information: Your policy number and coverage details.
Witness statements: If any witnesses saw the accident.

7. How long do I have to file a claim after a deer accident?

Insurance policies typically have deadlines for filing claims. It’s crucial to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, even if you’re not immediately certain about filing a claim. Check your policy or contact your insurer to determine the specific time frame for filing a claim in your state.

8. What if my insurance company denies my deer accident claim?

If your insurance company denies your claim, you have the right to appeal the decision. Review the denial letter carefully to understand the reasons for the denial. Gather any additional evidence that supports your claim and submit a written appeal to your insurance company. If your appeal is unsuccessful, you might consider contacting your state’s insurance department or consulting with an attorney.

9. Does Comprehensive Coverage cover injuries from a deer accident?

Comprehensive Coverage primarily covers damages to your vehicle. Injuries sustained in a deer accident would typically be covered by your medical payments coverage (if you have it) or your health insurance. If another driver’s negligence contributed to the accident (e.g., if they startled the deer), you might be able to pursue a claim against their Liability Coverage for your injuries.

10. Can I drop Comprehensive Coverage to save money?

While dropping Comprehensive Coverage can lower your insurance premiums, it also leaves you vulnerable to significant financial losses if you’re involved in a deer accident or other covered event. Carefully weigh the cost savings against the potential risks before making this decision, especially if you live in an area with a high deer population.

11. Are there any discounts for having deer accident prevention features in my car?

Some insurance companies offer discounts for vehicles equipped with advanced safety features that can help prevent accidents, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Inquire with your insurance company to see if they offer any discounts for these features.

12. Is a deer accident considered an “Act of God” by insurance companies?

The term “Act of God” generally refers to events caused by natural forces that are unforeseen and beyond human control. While some might loosely consider a deer accident as an “Act of God,” insurance companies typically classify it specifically as a collision with an animal covered under Comprehensive Coverage. Using the correct terminology when discussing your claim can help ensure clarity and avoid confusion.