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DEER + VEHICLE COLLISIONS

Deer vs. Vehicle Costs

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) finds that between 2014 and 2017 there were 1,740,425 animal-related insurance claims processed in the United States with collisions with deer causing the most claims. The actual number of incidents is likely much higher since many drivers do not choose to carry coverage for this type of event.

According to AAA, the average deer related claim is roughly $3,500 in damage.

Be sure to have comprehension coverage as this type of insurance coverage can help protect you in the event of a deer collision.

Tips to Avoid Collisions

  • Be especially attentive during commute hours. Deer and many other animals are most active between 5-8 a.m. and 5-8 p.m.

  • Stay Alert. Pay attention to "deer crossing" signs and be cautious in areas near woods or water.

  • Use High Beams. The extra light may help you spot animals sooner and give you time to slow down, move over or honk your horn to scare the animal away.

  • Remember Peak Season. Deer crashes happen most during October through December, which is hunting and mating season.

  • Know your Area Collisions are most likely to happen in West Virginia and Pennsylvania throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and are amongst two of the highest Deer vs. Vehicle Collision states. Maryland also experience a high number of collisions in comparison to the amount of Suburban area in the state.

  • Deer Whistles No scientific evidence supports that car-mounted deer whistles work.

  • Using the Horn Using the horn can distract or remove your hands from your steering wheel and through experience has little effect on deer avoidance. Keeping your hands on the wheel can help maintain vehicle control

  • Wear Seat Belts. Always obey speed limits and wear seat belts.

  • Look out for other deer. Deer rarely travel alone. If you see one, the chances are high there are others nearby.

  • Brake firmly and remain in your lane if impact is imminent. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid animals and hit oncoming vehicles, or crash into fixed objects on the side of the road, such as lampposts or trees.

  • Stay away from wounded animals. A wounded and frightened animal can be unpredictable and may cause injury. If an animal is in the middle of the road and blocking traffic, call the police or animal control organization.

  • Scan the road ahead of you. Sweep your eyes front, left and right for signs of deer and other animals. While these kinds of accidents are most frequently caused by animals darting in front of a car, animals can also run into the side of a vehicle.