What to Do If You Hit a Deer With Your Car

Deer accident insurance is a topic every driver should understand before it’s too late. Each year, roughly 1.8 million animal collision claims are filed in the United States. The vast majority involve deer. These crashes cause about 200 fatalities and up to 29,000 injuries annually, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The average deer strike claim now costs around $6,167. That number keeps climbing as modern vehicles become more expensive to repair. Understanding your deer accident insurance options can save you thousands of dollars. It also helps you act quickly and correctly after a collision. Knowing the right coverage type is especially important. Many drivers assume the wrong policy applies. This guide covers what to do step by step, how your insurance works, and how to protect yourself financially.

How Deer Accident Insurance Coverage Actually Works

Hitting a deer falls under comprehensive coverage, not collision coverage. This surprises many drivers. Comprehensive insurance covers events outside your control, such as animal strikes, theft, vandalism, and weather damage. The Insurance Information Institute (III) confirms this classification. A deer accident insurance claim is considered “not at fault.” As a result, it typically does not raise your premium.

However, there is an important distinction. If you swerve to avoid a deer and hit a tree or guardrail, that becomes a collision claim instead. Collision claims are more likely to increase your rates. For this reason, safety experts at NHTSA recommend drivers avoid swerving. It is safer to brake firmly and hit the deer than to risk a rollover or head-on crash.

Comprehensive coverage is optional unless your lender or lessor requires it. The most common deductible is $500. If your deer damage repair costs $4,000 and your deductible is $500, your insurer pays $3,500. Without comprehensive coverage, you pay the entire amount out of pocket. Checking your deer accident insurance policy before peak season is a smart move.

What to Do Immediately After Hitting a Deer

First, pull over safely and turn on your hazard lights. Do not try to move the deer yourself. An injured deer can kick with enough force to cause serious injury. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or the animal is blocking the road. In most cases, police will file an accident report. Many insurers require this report before processing your deer accident insurance claim.

Next, document everything. Take photos of the vehicle damage, the road conditions, and the deer if it is safe to do so. Note the time, location, and weather. This evidence supports your comprehensive claim. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Most carriers have 24/7 claims lines. The sooner you file, the faster your deer accident insurance payout is processed.

Do not leave the scene without reporting the incident. Some states require you to notify the local wildlife agency. For example, Pennsylvania and Michigan have specific reporting requirements for deer strikes. Failing to report could create legal issues. A police report also protects you if the damage is disputed later.

Peak Season, High-Risk States, and Prevention Tips

Deer collisions spike between October and December. November is the worst month. This period coincides with deer mating season, known as the rut. Crashes are most common at dusk and dawn, between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Knowing these patterns helps you adjust your driving habits and review your deer accident insurance before the danger peaks.

Some states carry far higher risk than others. According to State Farm’s annual study, the top five states for deer collision likelihood are:

If you live in a high-risk state, carrying comprehensive coverage is strongly recommended. Use high beams on rural roads when no oncoming traffic is present. If you spot one deer, expect more. Deer travel in groups. Typically, slowing down in known deer zones reduces your risk significantly. Having proper deer accident insurance ensures you are covered if prevention fails.

Will a Deer Claim Raise Your Insurance Rates?

In most cases, a single deer accident insurance claim will not increase your rates. Comprehensive claims are classified as not-at-fault events. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) notes that most insurers treat these differently from collision claims. Your claims-free discount usually stays intact after one deer strike.

However, multiple comprehensive claims within a short period may trigger a surcharge. Some insurers in certain states apply small increases after two or more claims. As a result, it is worth comparing your deductible to the repair cost before filing. If the damage is only slightly above your $500 deductible, paying out of pocket might be the better financial decision. Review your deer accident insurance terms carefully to understand your specific insurer’s policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does liability insurance cover hitting a deer?

No. Liability insurance only covers damage you cause to other people or their property. Hitting a deer requires comprehensive coverage, which is a separate policy. Without it, you pay all repair costs yourself. This is why deer accident insurance through comprehensive coverage matters so much.

How much does it cost to repair a car after hitting a deer?

The average deer collision claim is approximately $6,167. However, costs vary widely. Minor damage may run $1,500 to $2,000. Typically, vehicles with advanced sensors and cameras cost significantly more to repair. In some cases, the vehicle is totaled entirely. Your deer accident insurance deductible determines your out-of-pocket share.

What months are worst for deer collisions?

October, November, and December are the peak months. November is the single most dangerous month for deer strikes. For example, State Farm data shows claims nearly double during this window compared to summer months. Reviewing your deer accident insurance coverage before fall is strongly recommended.

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Official Sources & Resources

For verified information on auto insurance regulations and consumer protection:

• NAIC (National Association of Insurance Commissioners): naic.org
• Insurance Information Institute: iii.org
• Federal Trade Commission — Auto Insurance: consumer.ftc.gov
• USA.gov — Car Insurance: usa.gov/car-insurance

Content last reviewed March 2026. If you notice any outdated information, please contact us.

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