what to do if i hit a deer

3 min read 25-12-2024

Meta Description: Hitting a deer is a terrifying experience. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions on what to do after an accident involving a deer, from ensuring your safety to reporting the incident and handling insurance claims. Learn how to protect yourself, your passengers, and minimize potential legal consequences. Don't panic; we'll guide you through the process.

Assessing the Situation After Hitting a Deer

Hitting a deer is a frightening experience. Your immediate priorities are safety and assessing the damage.

1. Ensure Your Safety:

Pull over to a safe location: Get your vehicle off the road, away from oncoming traffic, if possible. Turn on your hazard lights immediately.
Check for injuries: Assess yourself and your passengers for injuries. Call emergency services (911) if anyone needs medical attention. Even minor impacts can cause whiplash or other injuries.
Stay calm: Panic won't help. Take deep breaths and follow the steps below methodically.

2. Assess the Damage:

Vehicle damage: Check for significant damage to your car. Note the extent of the damage to your vehicle. Take pictures from multiple angles. This is crucial for insurance purposes.
Deer's condition: Check on the deer's condition from a safe distance. If it's severely injured and suffering, consider calling your local animal control or wildlife agency. Do not approach an injured deer. They can be unpredictable and dangerous.

What to Do After Hitting a Deer

Following an accident involving a deer requires several crucial steps:

3. Contact the Authorities:

Report the accident: Even if there's minimal damage and no injuries, it's essential to report the incident to the police. This establishes a record of the event.
Obtain a police report: A police report is essential for insurance claims. Request a copy if one is not provided immediately.

4. Document the Accident:

Take photos: Take multiple photos of the accident scene: the damage to your vehicle, the location, and the deer (from a safe distance). These photos are critical evidence for insurance purposes.
Note details: Write down the date, time, location, and any other relevant information about the accident. Include the names and contact information of any witnesses.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company:

Report the claim: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the police report and photos of the damage.
Follow their instructions: Your insurer will guide you through the claims process. Be prepared to answer their questions thoroughly and accurately.

6. Dealing with the Deer:

Avoid touching the deer: Unless it’s clearly suffering and you feel safe to do so, don’t attempt to handle the injured animal. Contact your local animal control or wildlife agency for assistance.
Do not remove the deer: Leave the removal of the deer to the appropriate authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What if the deer runs away?

Even if the deer appears unharmed and runs away, it’s still crucial to report the accident to the police and your insurance company. Hidden injuries could manifest later.

Who pays for the damage to my car?

Generally, your collision insurance will cover the damage to your vehicle, regardless of who was at fault (unless you have an exclusion for animal collisions). Contact your insurer to discuss your coverage.

Do I need a lawyer after hitting a deer?

In most cases, a lawyer is not necessary for a simple deer collision. However, if there are significant injuries, substantial property damage, or disputes with your insurance company, consulting a lawyer might be beneficial.

Conclusion: Staying Safe After a Deer Collision

Hitting a deer can be unsettling. Remember to prioritize safety, document everything thoroughly, and contact the relevant authorities and your insurance company. By following these steps, you can minimize the disruption and handle the situation effectively. Remember, your safety and the safety of your passengers is paramount. A calm and methodical response will help you navigate this challenging situation.