It Happens More Often Than You Think
Every fall, as the leaves change and the days get shorter, drivers across the U.S. face a hidden danger: deer on the move. From October through December, deer activity increases sharply during mating season — especially around dawn and dusk. States like New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina see hundreds of accidents caused by deer every year.
Even careful drivers can find themselves in this situation. So what should you do if you hit a deer — and will your insurance actually cover it?
Step 1: Stay Calm and Pull Over Safely
If you hit a deer, resist the urge to swerve — it can cause even more serious accidents. Instead, brake firmly, steer straight, and move your vehicle to a safe location off the road.
Once you’re safely parked:
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- Check yourself and your passengers for injuries.
- Call 911 if the deer is blocking traffic or if anyone is hurt.
Never try to approach or move an injured deer — they can be unpredictable and dangerous.
Step 2: Document the Scene
Just like any accident, take photos of:
- The damage to your vehicle
- The road and surrounding area
- The deer (if visible from a safe distance)
Then, notify your local police. A police report will help when filing your insurance claim.
Step 3: Call Your Insurance Agent (That’s Where We Come In)
Here’s the part many drivers misunderstand — a deer collision isn’t covered by “collision” insurance.
It’s actually covered under comprehensive coverage, which protects your car from non-collision events like:
- Hitting an animal
- Falling objects (like a tree branch)
- Theft or vandalism
- Fire, flood, or natural disasters
If you only have liability coverage, you’ll be responsible for paying out of pocket. That’s why it’s so important to review your coverage before deer season starts.
Step 4: Get Help with Repairs and Claims
Once you’ve contacted your insurance company, they’ll guide you through filing a claim and getting your car repaired.
At StreetSmart Insurance, our team helps clients every day with these types of claims — from getting an estimate to finding a trusted repair shop.
If you’re unsure whether your policy includes comprehensive coverage, reach out today for a quick coverage review. It could save you thousands in unexpected costs.
Funny Fact to Lighten the Mood
Did you know that deer are naturally attracted to freshly waxed cars? Okay — not exactly — but during mating season, their attention span drops dramatically. Basically, they’re the teenagers of the animal world: distracted and unpredictable. So maybe skip the high beams and the fresh polish before your next countryside drive.
Watch the Video
Final Tip: Prevention Is the Best Protection
- Stay alert when driving near wooded or rural areas.
- Watch for groups — if you see one deer, others are likely nearby.
- Use high beams when safe to do so at night.
Before You Hit the Road This Fall
Deer season is a reminder that nature doesn’t always stay in its lane — but your insurance should.
Make sure your coverage does more than the bare minimum.
Follow StreetSmart for more seasonal driving tips — and make sure you’re covered before deer season catches you off guard.