How to Avoid Animal Collisions & What to Do After
Posted in News & Updates
The risk of a deer-car collision is heightened during November
due to earlier sunsets and less visibility during peak driving hours.
Here are a few tips to help you avoid an animal collision, and what
to do if one occurs.
Tips to Help Avoid Hitting a Deer
• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Pay attention
to road signs and warnings, especially near wooded
areas and during dusk and dawn, which is when deer
are most active.
• Deer travel in packs, so if you spot one deer, maintain
cautious driving as more deer may follow.
• On a multi-lane road or highway, stick to the center
lanes. If a deer comes from the side of the road, you’ll
have more time to react.
• Avoid speeding up if a deer is in your path, and instead
try to come to a complete stop. If a crash is unavoidable,
don’t swerve into another lane and try to remain calm.
What To Do In Case of a Collision
• After a collision with a deer, get to a safe place, check if anyone
involved is injured, call the police, document the accident and
file a claim.
• Do not attempt to remove the deer yourself if it is deceased.
The police will alert the proper authorities to remove it.
• If the deer is alive, avoid approaching or touching the animal.
A wounded deer will likely be frightened and dangerous.
• If you carry Comprehensive coverage on your auto policy, you have
coverage for damage to your vehicle due to an animal strike,
subject to applicable coverage exclusions and deductibles.