Deer Collisions: Will Your Auto Insurance Costs Increase?

Hitting a deer can be a traumatic experience, and it's not surprising that deer-car collisions happen often, given there are roughly 36 million deer in the US. If you have comprehensive coverage, your auto insurance policy will cover vehicle damage caused by hitting a deer. However, if you only have liability coverage, your insurer won't pay for damages, as liability insurance covers damage to others, not your vehicle. While filing a comprehensive claim usually doesn't increase insurance rates, your rates may go up if you file multiple claims within a specified period. Additionally, if you swerve to avoid a deer and hit another car or object, it's considered a collision claim, and your collision coverage would apply.

Comprehensive coverage includes damage caused by hitting a deer

Comprehensive coverage is an optional coverage that protects your vehicle against damage caused by non-collision events outside your control. This includes theft, vandalism, glass and windshield damage, fire, accidents with animals, weather, or other acts of nature. Comprehensive coverage is often confused with collision coverage, which protects against damage to your car from hitting another vehicle or object.

Comprehensive coverage is particularly useful if you live in an area with a large deer population, as deer-car collisions can cause serious injuries and significant damage to your vehicle. If you hit a deer, comprehensive coverage will cover the damage to your car. It's important to note that your car must come into contact with the deer for comprehensive coverage to apply. If you swerve to avoid a deer and hit another object or vehicle, this would be considered a collision, and collision coverage would be needed to cover the damage.

The cost of comprehensive coverage can vary depending on factors such as the value of your vehicle, your location, and your driving record. You can typically choose a deductible amount for your comprehensive coverage, which is the portion of the damage cost you must pay before your insurance company pays the rest. A higher deductible can result in lower premiums, but ensure that you can afford to pay the deductible amount in the event of a claim.

Comprehensive insurance claims usually do not cause your insurance rates to increase. However, insurance companies consider your entire claims history when setting rates, so filing an unusually large number of comprehensive claims could impact your rates. It's always a good idea to review your insurance policy and understand your coverage details to know what is covered in the event of a deer-related accident.

Liability insurance does not cover damage to your own vehicle

Liability insurance is an insurance product that provides protection against claims resulting from injuries and damage to other people or property. It covers legal costs and payouts for which the insured party would be found liable. However, it does not cover damage to the insured person's own vehicle.

Liability insurance is also called third-party insurance because it pays third parties, and not policyholders. It covers bodily injury liability and property damage liability.

Bodily injury liability covers costs related to injuries or death caused by the policyholder or other drivers covered by the policy to another person in an accident. This includes medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of income. Property damage liability covers the costs associated with damage caused by the policyholder or someone driving the insured vehicle to someone else's property.

While liability insurance is essential for protecting yourself from financial loss in the event of an accident, it's important to note that it won't cover repairs to your own vehicle. If you want to ensure you're covered for damage to your own car, you'll need to consider adding comprehensive and collision coverage to your policy.

Comprehensive coverage can help protect you financially if you hit a deer or another animal. It covers damage to your vehicle caused by events out of your control, such as colliding with an animal. Collision coverage, on the other hand, covers damage to your vehicle resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object.

Filing a police report is advisable

Hitting a deer with your car can be a traumatic experience, and it's understandable to worry about insurance rates increasing as a result. While comprehensive insurance typically covers collisions with animals, it's still likely that your premium will increase after filing a claim. However, it is recommended that you file a police report in such situations, and here are some reasons why:

Suppressing the Threat and Risk of Violence

Filing a police report can help address the threat's potential impact, including trauma, economic loss, and physical injury. The police may intervene and speak with the person(s) involved, often deterring or stopping the threatening behaviour. They can also advise you on how to avoid future threats and confrontations, empowering you with knowledge to protect yourself, your family, and your property.

Creating a Record of the Threat

By filing a police report, law enforcement will have a record of the incident, including the intent and threat. This can expedite the investigative and legal process, especially if the victim is unable to participate due to injuries or other circumstances. It also assists in providing critical information such as possible motives, timelines, and witnesses, which can be valuable in prosecuting the offender.

Maintaining Public Safety

Suspected threats against public safety, such as bomb threats or terrorist attacks, should be taken seriously and reported to the police. They have the resources and expertise to assess the severity of the threat and take preventive measures to protect the public. Reporting such incidents can save lives and prevent destruction of property and infrastructure.

Recovery of Property Damage Costs

Filing a police report can aid in recovering costs associated with property damage. The report serves as valuable evidence in civil lawsuits against the person responsible for the threat and the resulting damage. Additionally, insurance companies may use the police report when the victim makes a claim for property damage, streamlining the claims process.

In summary, while it is unfortunate to be involved in an accident with a deer, it is important to prioritise your safety and well-being. By filing a police report, you not only contribute to public safety but also increase the chances of a smoother insurance claims process and recovery from any potential economic losses. Remember, your well-being is paramount, and seeking support from authorities can help alleviate the stress and challenges associated with such incidents.

Insurance rates may increase after filing a claim

Different insurance providers have different criteria for assessing surcharges after accidents. It is important to understand that accidents caused by the policyholder or someone driving their car are the most likely to increase insurance rates. If the driver is found to be 50% or more at fault for an accident, the insurance company will likely impose a surcharge when the policy is renewed. The more damage the accident caused, the more likely it is that your rates will increase. If the policyholder causes too many accidents or engages in risky behaviors such as driving under the influence or speeding, the insurance company may decide not to renew the policy at all.

It is worth noting that minor accidents, such as a fender bender in a parking lot, may not cause your rates to increase as much as a serious accident, but your rates may still go up. Additionally, even though most insurance companies only increase rates for at-fault accidents, there are states with no-fault insurance systems, like Michigan, where insurance companies may choose to increase rates even for accidents caused by someone else because those accidents still cost the insurance company money.

If you are unsure whether filing a claim after hitting a deer will affect your insurance rates, it is recommended to consult your insurance agent or review your insurance policy to understand your specific coverage and potential rate increases.

Collision coverage is required if you swerve and hit another car or object

Collision coverage is an optional add-on to your auto insurance policy. It is required if you swerve and hit another car or object. It is important to note that collision coverage is different from comprehensive coverage, which covers incidents involving animals like deer. While collision insurance is not required by state law, it is often needed if your car is not fully paid off and your lender or lessor may ask for it.

Collision coverage reimburses you for the damage to your car after a crash with another vehicle or object. It covers the cost of repairing or replacing your car in the event of a collision with another vehicle or object, such as a lamppost or a tree. It also covers the cost of repairing or replacing your car if it rolls over or is hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.

If you swerve to avoid hitting a deer and end up colliding with another vehicle or object, collision coverage will cover the damage to your vehicle. This is distinct from comprehensive coverage, which covers damage to your vehicle caused by hitting a deer or other animal. Comprehensive coverage is also optional but is often purchased alongside collision coverage. It covers damage to your vehicle from non-traffic events such as theft, floods, or hitting an animal.

It is worth noting that collision coverage will not cover any damage to other vehicles or objects involved in the accident, nor will it cover any bodily injuries sustained. These may be covered by your liability insurance.

Frequently asked questions