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What happens if you hit a deer with your car insurance?

What happens if you hit a deer with your car insurance?

The consequences for swerving to miss a deer can be significant in regards to your car insurance policy too. Hitting an inanimate object with your vehicle is a collision. Collision accidents often come with higher deductibles and higher surcharges.

Is it possible to hit a deer in South Carolina?

He holds the coveted CFP designation from The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards in Washington, DC, and is a Registered Investment Adviser with the state of South Carolina. The number of deer-related accidents spikes every fall. 1  Deer can be skittish and often move unexpectedly.

What happens if you swerve to miss hitting a deer?

Never swerve to miss hitting a deer. A lot more damage and injury is at stake if you swerve to attempt avoiding impact with a deer. Once you swerve, you are at a much greater risk of hitting oncoming traffic, a tree, light post, mailbox, or ditch.

Do you have to file a police report if you hit a deer?

Filing a Police Report. Police reports are handy with any insurance claim. They are usually not required for a deer claim to be paid out, but it’s a good idea to get a police report—especially if you have hit multiple deer recently. Documentation makes the claim process cut and dry.

What to do if you hit a deer with your car?

Generally speaking, if you hit a deer with your car, it’s a good idea to call 911. But it’s not always necessary. “If it is an emergency, if somebody is injured, if the deer is still alive and in the middle of the road causing a traffic obstruction, calling 911 would be appropriate at that time,” Post said.

What are the odds of hitting a deer?

Odds of a deer collision are 1 out of 167, but that likelihood doubles during deer season, from October to December. Last year the national average for hitting a deer, elk, caribou or moose was 1 in 162.

How do you report hitting a deer?

Pull over in a safe place and call the police to report hitting a deer. Take pictures of the scene and any damage to your car. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. If the deer is alive and lying in the road, don’t try to move it yourself.

Does insurance cover hitting a deer?

Car insurance covers hitting a deer. Typically, if you have “full” coverage on your vehicle (collision and comprehensive benefits), the claim will be paid by your insurer. Typically, it is classified as a “comprehensive” claim and not subject to any surcharges.

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Ruth Doyle