Does Hitting a Deer Count as an Accident With Insurance? (Coverage, Rates & What to Do)

In states like California, where roads often cut through rural or forested areas, deer collisions are a frequent hazard for drivers. According to a 2023 UC Davis Road Ecology Center study, about 5,000 mule deer were killed by vehicles statewide. Many drivers wonder, “Does hitting a deer count as an accident with insurance?” The answer isn’t always straightforward.

Whether a deer collision counts as an “accident” in insurance terms, which types of coverage apply, and how it might affect your premiums are common concerns. This article explains how insurance typically handles deer-related incidents, the differences between comprehensive and collision coverage, and the steps you should take immediately after a deer collision to protect yourself and your claim.

What Type of Insurance Covers a Deer Collision?

Most deer-related accidents are covered under comprehensive insurance, not collision coverage. Comprehensive insurance typically pays for damage caused by events outside of your control, like hitting an animal, theft, or natural disasters. Collision coverage, on the other hand, usually applies when you collide with another vehicle or object, such as a guardrail or another car. If you only have liability insurance, which covers damage you cause to others, your vehicle repairs from a deer collision likely won’t be covered. Understanding which coverage applies is crucial before filing a claim to avoid surprises with your insurer.

Does Hitting A Deer Count As An “Accident”?

In insurance terms, hitting a deer is considered an accident, but it is generally not classified as an at-fault collision. This distinction is important because it affects how the incident may appear on your driving record and whether it impacts your premiums. Filing a comprehensive claim for a deer collision usually does not increase your insurance rates, though policies and state rules can vary. Knowing the difference between an “accident” and an “at-fault accident” can help you understand your coverage options and what to expect after reporting the claim.

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

If you’re driving in areas where wildlife is prevalent, comprehensive insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection during a deer collision. Here’s how comprehensive insurance benefits you in this scenario:

• Repair Costs: Comprehensive insurance will typically cover the repair costs associated with damage to your vehicle caused by a deer impact. Given that collisions with large animals can cause substantial damage, this coverage can save you from significant out-of-pocket expenses.

• Medical Expenses: In some cases, deer collisions can lead to injuries for you or your passengers. Comprehensive insurance may cover medical expenses related to these injuries, depending on your policy. Alternatively, you may need additional personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payment coverage.

• Minimal Impact on Premiums: One of the benefits of filing a comprehensive claim for a deer collision is that it generally has a smaller impact on your insurance premiums compared to a collision claim. Since deer-related accidents are often considered unavoidable, insurers may not penalize you with a rate hike for a comprehensive claim.

Steps To Take After Hitting A Deer

If you hit a deer while driving, knowing the right steps to take is essential to ensure safety, manage the scene effectively, and prepare for an insurance claim. Here’s a quick guide:

• Pull Over: If possible, pull over to the side of the road to prevent further incidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers, especially if it’s dark or visibility is limited.

• Check for Injuries: Assess yourself, any passengers, and other individuals involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately.

• Call Authorities: It’s generally a good idea to call the police after hitting a deer, as they can help with traffic control and file an official accident report. This report may be required by your insurance company to process your claim.

• Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including your vehicle, any visible damage, the road conditions, and the surrounding area. Documentation can be helpful for your insurance claim and provide valuable evidence if there are any disputes later.

• Don’t Touch the Deer: Injured animals can be unpredictable and dangerous. It’s best not to approach or attempt to move the deer. Instead, allow animal control or other authorities to handle the situation.

Finally, once you’re safe, you can contact your insurance company to report the accident. Be prepared to provide details, including the accident’s date, time, location, and description. They’ll guide you through the claims process. When you report a deer collision to your insurance provider, you’ll likely file that comprehensive claim we discussed earlier. Some insurance companies may ask you to obtain repair estimates, while others will send an adjuster to assess the damage.

To avoid delays, could you report the incident as soon as possible? Deer collisions are often considered unavoidable, which won’t lead to a premium hike. However, your insurer may still adjust your rate if you have multiple comprehensive claims within a short time frame. It’s worth discussing with your provider if you have concerns.

Filing A Claim For A Deer Collision

Filing a claim for a deer collision usually falls under comprehensive insurance coverage. Start by contacting your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the incident. Explain what happened and provide any necessary details, like the location and time of the collision. Include photos of the damage to your car and any additional documentation, such as a police report. These details help your insurance company assess, does hitting a deer count as an accident?

Be prepared to pay your policy’s deductible before the insurance covers the remaining repair costs. Some companies might require repair estimates, while others send an adjuster to evaluate the damage. Comprehensive claims for deer collisions typically don’t lead to higher premiums since these accidents are often unavoidable. However, frequent claims could still impact your rates, so it’s worth discussing with your provider if unsure. Acting promptly and providing accurate information will make the claims process smoother.

Does Hitting an Animal Count as an Accident With Insurance?

If you’re ever in a situation where your car collides with an animal, you might wonder if your insurance considers it an “accident.” The answer is yes — but it’s treated differently than a crash involving another vehicle. Because there’s no other driver involved, these situations usually fall under comprehensive coverage instead of collision coverage.

Here’s what that means for you:

• Comprehensive coverage applies. If your policy includes it, comprehensive coverage typically pays for the repair costs after you meet your deductible.
• Medical coverage depends on your policy. If you or your passengers are injured, medical expenses may be covered under personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments coverage if you have them.
• Premium increases are often smaller. Because animal collisions are considered out of your control, your insurance rates may not rise as sharply as they would after a collision claim.
• You’ll pay your deductible. As with most claims, you’re responsible for the deductible before your insurer pays the balance.

What To Do Right After the Accident

Once the initial shock passes, taking the right steps can keep you safe and make the claims process smoother:

1. Pull over safely. Turn on your hazard lights and get out of traffic.
2. Check for injuries. Look after yourself and your passengers first. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away.
3. Notify the authorities. An official report helps protect you and supports your insurance claim.
4. Take photos. Document your car, the road, and any visible damage. These details can make a big difference when filing your claim.
5. Stay safe around the animal. Injured or dead wildlife can be dangerous — let professionals handle it.
6. Call your insurance company. Report the incident as soon as you can, and provide your photos and the police report.
7. Arrange repairs. Your insurer may send an adjuster or ask you to get quotes for the damage.

Closing Words

Hopefully, by now, you can answer the question: Does hitting a deer count as an accident? The answer is almost always yes! While insurance is often the first line of protection after a deer collision, sometimes claims don’t go as smoothly as expected. This is where Deldar can help.

Our team is ready if your insurance provider disputes your claim, underestimates your damages, or raises premiums unfairly. Dial Deldar at (844) 335-3271, and we will help you get back on the road with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will hitting a deer be on my driving record? Generally, no. Deer collisions are usually filed as comprehensive claims, which do not count as at-fault accidents on your driving record. Only at-fault collisions typically appear on your record.

Q: Do I need a police report? It depends on your state and insurer. In some states, a police report is required for certain accidents. Even when not required, filing a report can help document the incident for your insurance claim.

Q: Does comprehensive coverage pay for medical bills? No. Comprehensive coverage typically only covers damage to your vehicle. Medical expenses would be covered by your personal injury protection (PIP) or health insurance, not your comprehensive auto policy.

Q: What if I only have liability insurance? Liability insurance covers damage you cause to others, not your own vehicle. If you only have liability coverage, repairs from hitting a deer would not be covered, and you would be responsible for out-of-pocket costs.

Q: Will my rates go up if this is my only claim? Most insurers do not raise premiums for a single comprehensive claim, such as a deer collision. However, policies and state regulations vary, so it’s best to confirm with your insurer.