Oh Deer! Does Your Auto Insurance Have You Covered?

It's that time of year when you need to keep an eye on the road AND the tree line!

Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year in West Tennessee. The leaves are changing, the mornings are getting cooler, and deer are becoming an increasingly common sight along our highways, backroads, and neighborhood streets. While spotting a deer in a field might be a beautiful sight, seeing one suddenly jump in front of your vehicle is a completely different story!

October and November are especially important months for drivers to remain alert, as deer activity increases during the fall breeding season.And while we all hope to avoid an unexpected encounter, there's one question every driver should consider:

If you hit a deer, will your auto insurance cover the damage?

At Greenbridge Insurance & Investment, we believe understanding your coverage before an accident happens can save you from a lot of confusion and unexpected expenses later.

Let's take a closer look!

Does Auto Insurance Cover Hitting a Deer?

The short answer? It can, but it depends on the coverage you carry! Many drivers assume that any damage resulting from an accident will automatically be covered by their auto insurance policy. Unfortunately, that's not always the case. When it comes to hitting a deer or another animal, the damage is generally covered under comprehensive coverage, rather than collision coverage.

Comprehensive insurance is designed to help protect your vehicle against certain unexpected events that aren't traditional collisions with another vehicle or object.

These may include:

• Accidents involving deer or other animals

• Theft and vandalism

• Hail and certain storm-related damage

• Falling trees or branches

• Fire

• Certain other incidents beyond your control

  
  

If your vehicle is damaged after striking a deer, comprehensive coverage may help pay for repairs, minus your deductible and subject to the terms of your policy. However, if you don't carry comprehensive coverage, you may be responsible for the repair costs yourself.

Comprehensive vs. Collision: What's the Difference?

This is where things can get a little confusing! Let's say you're driving down a country road one evening when a deer suddenly runs across the highway.

Scenario 1: You Hit the Deer

The deer runs directly in front of your vehicle, and you're unable to stop in time.

In most cases, damage resulting from directly striking the deer would fall under your comprehensive coverage.

Scenario 2: You Swerve to Avoid the Deer

Instead of hitting the deer, you quickly swerve, lose control, and strike a tree or guardrail.

Even though the deer caused you to react, the resulting damage would generally fall under collision coverage rather than comprehensive coverage.

Surprising, right?

That's why understanding the difference between these two types of coverage is so important! The circumstances of an accident and the specific terms of your insurance policy determine how a claim is handled.

Why Are Deer More Active During the Fall?

If you live in West Tennessee, you probably already know that deer seem to appear everywhere once fall arrives! There's a reason for that. During the fall breeding season, commonly called the rut, deer become more active and may travel greater distances in search of mates. This increased movement means deer are more likely to cross roadways, sometimes without warning. They're also particularly active around dawn and dusk, when visibility may already be limited. For drivers traveling along rural highways, wooded roads, or areas surrounded by fields, this can create an especially dangerous situation. And remember, where there's one deer, there may be another close behind!

5 Tips for Avoiding Deer-Related Accidents

While there's no way to completely eliminate the risk of encountering a deer on the road, there are several precautions you can take to help reduce your chances of an accident.

1. Pay Extra Attention at Dawn and Dusk

Deer are often most active during the early morning and evening hours. Slow down when driving through wooded areas or places where deer are frequently spotted.

2. Watch for Deer Crossing Signs

Those yellow deer crossing signs aren't just decorations! They're placed in areas where deer activity and roadway crossings are common. Use them as a reminder to stay alert.

3. Remember That Deer Often Travel Together

If you see one deer cross the road, don't immediately assume the coast is clear. Others may be following nearby.

4. Use Your High Beams When Appropriate

When driving at night, high beams can help improve visibility on dark rural roads. Just remember to dim them for oncoming traffic and when following other vehicles.

5. Brake Firmly and Avoid Dangerous Swerving

If a deer suddenly appears in front of your vehicle, brake firmly while maintaining control of your vehicle. Swerving into another lane, a ditch, or a tree could result in an even more serious accident.

Your safety and the safety of others on the road should always come first.

What Should You Do If You Hit a Deer?

Even the most cautious drivers can experience a deer-related accident.

If it happens to you, the most important thing is to remain calm and prioritize safety. First, pull over to a safe location if possible and turn on your hazard lights. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries, and contact emergency services if anyone needs medical attention. If it's safe to do so, take photographs of the damage to your vehicle and the surrounding scene. Avoid approaching or touching an injured deer, as frightened or wounded animals can behave unpredictably. Depending on the circumstances, you may also need to contact local law enforcement, particularly if there are injuries, roadway hazards, or significant vehicle damage. Once you're safe, contact your insurance company or agent to discuss the incident and the next steps for filing a claim.

When Was the Last Time You Reviewed Your Auto Insurance?

Here's something worth thinking about: Just because you have auto insurance doesn't necessarily mean you're protected against every situation you might encounter on the road. Some drivers choose liability-only coverage to keep their monthly premiums lower, without realizing that liability insurance generally does not pay for damage to their own vehicle after striking a deer. Others may carry comprehensive coverage but haven't reviewed their deductibles or coverage limits in years. That's why we encourage drivers to periodically review their auto insurance policies and ask questions about the protection they have in place.

Consider asking yourself:

• Do I currently have comprehensive coverage?

• What is my comprehensive deductible?

• Would I be financially prepared to repair or replace my vehicle after an unexpected accident?

• Do I understand the difference between comprehensive and collision coverage?

• Has my vehicle or financial situation changed since I last reviewed my policy?

  
  

These are all important questions, and you don't have to figure out the answers on your own!

Stay Alert, Stay Safe, and Stay Protected This Fall!

West Tennessee is a wonderful place to call home, but sharing the roads with wildlife is simply part of living here. As deer activity picks up this fall, take a little extra time to watch the road, slow down when necessary, and stay aware of your surroundings. And while you're being careful behind the wheel, make sure your insurance coverage is working just as hard to protect you!

At Greenbridge Insurance & Investment, we're here to help you understand your options, answer your questions, and find coverage that fits your needs. Whether you're unsure if your current policy covers deer-related accidents or simply haven't reviewed your auto insurance in a while, we'd love the opportunity to help. Don't wait until you're staring at a deer in your headlights to wonder whether you're covered! 🦌

Contact Greenbridge Insurance & Investment today to review your auto insurance coverage and drive into the fall season with greater peace of mind.

Coverage varies by insurance company, policy, and the circumstances of each claim. Comprehensive and collision coverage are generally optional, although lenders may require them on financed or leased vehicles. This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not guarantee coverage. Consult your insurance policy and a licensed insurance professional for details.