The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that there are 1.5 million car accidents involving deer each year. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the average collision cost for this type of accident is over $2,000. If an injury is involved, the figure is estimated at around $10,000! This is just for deer alone. Other animals are excluded from these statistics.
These statistics can be quite alarming. It may be in your best interest to find a car insurance policy that protects you from wildlife accidents.
Car Insurance and Wildlife
With comprehensive car insurance, you can protect your car against wildlife accidents.This coverage covers you for damages that were not caused from other vehicles. Not only are you protected from deer or other wildlife, comprehensive coverage protects you from theft, vandalism, hail, and fire. If damage is caused by hitting a deer or some other animal, comprehensive coverage considers this an act of nature, which allows you to file a property damage claim.
Carrying only liability insurance will not protect you from acts of nature. You need comprehensive coverage.
Car Accident Claim
If you hit a deer and damage your car, you will need to decide whether or not to file a car accident claim. DMV.org states that if, for example, your deductible is $1000 dollars and the damage is estimated to be at $465, you will not be covered. If the damage is over the deductible, the insurance company will pay the difference.
If you decide to file a claim, there may be an increase in your rates even though you’re not at fault. The rules regarding increasing rates depend on the state you’re living in and the insurance company. Be sure to check with your car insurance company to clarify. When filing, make sure you have plenty of pictures showcasing the damage from all angles.
Avoiding Deer on the Road
- Deer are most active around dusk and dawn. Increase awareness at this time.
- Be aware that the months of October and November have the highest number of deer-caused car accidents
- Slow down when you see a deer crossing sign
- One deer spotted may indicate that others are nearby. Drive accordingly.
Do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer?
The Philadelphia accident attorneys at The Heslin Law Firm have the experience necessary to battle the insurance company for your right to compensation. Financial compensation will help pay for pain and suffering, medical bills, lost wages, and more. Our law firm operates on a contingency fee basis. This means if you don’t get paid, we don’t don’t get paid. We have been practicing car accident law in the city of Philadelphia for over thirty years.
If you have been involved in a car crash due to someone else’s negligence, contact our office for a free consultation.