Yes, your car insurance may cover a deer hitting your car, if you have comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive coverage is an optional coverage that pays for damage to your car not related to a collision.
Hitting an animal is not considered a collision for most car insurance policies. A collision is typically defined as hitting or being hit by another car or colliding with a stationary object like a tree.
Comprehensive insurance and hitting a deer
Comprehensive coverage pays for incidents such as:
- Damage caused by hitting an animal
- Natural disasters and storms
- Fires
- Theft
- Vandalism
Since damage from hitting an animal is covered under your comprehensive coverage, you need to pay your deductible when you file a claim. A deductible is your share of the cost for a claim. A deductible is not the same as your insurance premium, which is what you pay to maintain your policy.
For example, say you hit a deer and damage the front of your car. It costs $1,000 to fix your car and your comprehensive deductible is $500. In this case, you would pay $500 and your insurance will cover the remaining cost.
When will car insurance not cover deer-related accidents?
Steps to take after hitting a deer
Step 1: Move to a safe place
The first thing you should do is move your car to a safe place. Do not approach an injured animal. Be aware of traffic around the deer.
Step 2: Check for injuries
Check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. Get medical attention if there are any injuries.
Step 3: Contact authorities
If the deer is blocking the road, call the police on the non-emergency line to notify them. It may be a danger to other motorists on the road. In some states, you may be required to report when you hit wildlife.
Step 4: Take pictures
Try to document the scene and take pictures of the road, any injuries and damage to your car. This will help the adjuster when you file your claim.
Step 5: Check for damage
Inspect your car for any damage. If it is unsafe to drive, be sure to call for towing assistance.
Step 6: Inform your insurance company
Once you are safe, call your insurance company and start filing your claim.
Filing an insurance claim for deer accidents
We know that filing any kind of car insurance claim can be stressful. The unique claims services at Plymouth Rock will simplify the process, and help get you back on the road in no time.
- File your claim — please have your policy number ready. You can file a claim online or by contacting us or your agent directly.
- Assignment and tracking of the claim — after you report your claim, you’ll receive a claim number to help track its progress. We’ll also assign you a friendly representative to answer any questions you may have.
- Damage evaluation — if your vehicle has damage and the applicable coverage applies, we offer these convenient options to get you back on the road as soon as possible:
- CarPics® Photo Appraisals: Eliminate the need to schedule a claims inspection and receive your estimate within hours. You may even get paid that same day.*
- Crashbusters® Mobile Claim Service: Have a representative meet you to appraise the damage at a time and place that’s convenient for you, often issuing you a check on the spot.
- Door to Door Valet Claim Service®: Let us pick up your car and handle the repair process from start to finish. If you have rental coverage, we’ll even coordinate a rental car.
- Receive your claim settlement — based on your situation, Plymouth Rock may pay your claim to the repair shop or we may reimburse you directly. Your claim payment will be based on the terms and coverage in your car insurance policy.
Best ways to avoid hitting a deer
The best way to prevent deer-related vehicle damage is to be vigilant when driving. Deer are most active during dusk and dawn, so exercise caution during these times.
Slow down if you spot a deer further down the road. Deer typically travel in herds, so one deer is usually followed by more.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially when you see deer crossing signs and while driving through wooded areas. Use your high beams when driving through these areas at night to see further ahead but remember to turn them off if there is oncoming traffic.
Keep an eye out for deer during mating season from October to November. Deer in rut may become more active than usual and lose awareness of their surroundings. Loud noises and flashing lights can cause unpredictable behavior and startle deer to run into traffic.
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This page is for informational purposes only. Actual coverage may vary and is subject to the policy issued by your insurer. Restrictions and limitations may apply. Review your policy and consult a licensed insurance professional to learn more about your coverage.