Infographic: Deer on the road? Here’s what to do

Posted in Auto

Woman with brown hair smiles while sitting in the driver’s seat with her hands on the wheel.

Oh deer!

As many as 2.1 million deer-vehicle collisions occur every year, according to CNN. They go on to report approximately “59,000 human injuries and 440 human deaths” per year happen from accidents with deer on the road.

A run-in with a deer can be a very unfortunate event. You and your passengers can suffer injuries, and it can cost approximately $5,600 to repair your vehicle.

In the infographic below, we offer five quick tips to prevent a collision and, if an accident is unavoidable, explain how to minimize damage to you, your passengers and your car. For more detailed information about avoiding deer on the road or submitting an auto claim if you’re in an accident, keep reading after the infographic.

Keep this infographic in mind when you see a deer on or near the roadway.

When to be on high alert for deer on the road

In wooded regions, sharing the road with deer is part of your daily life. Here are some deer facts that can help you be on high alert for them while you drive:

  1. Deer are crepuscular animals, which means they are most active during dawn and dusk.
  2. Deer breeding season happens from October to late December, so you will likely see more deer during this time of year.
  3. Deer are attracted to roads for the food plants that grow in medians and along the side of the road. In wooded areas, roads simply cut through their natural habitats where they feed and sleep.

A 2022 report from Current Biology states there’s a 16% surge in the number of deer-auto collisions the week after daylight saving time ends (time change) in November. Plus, deer-vehicle collisions are 14 times more likely just after dark.

Talk to your new and young drivers about deer on the road

The infographic above can be a great tool for teen drivers who need some help avoiding a deer car accident. Help your young drivers take extra precautions at night and dusk this deer season.

 
Learn about our
Auto Insurance

What happens if you hit a deer?

You drove cautiously, you kept your high beams on when no other drivers were nearby, but it still happened: You hit a deer. Now what? Follow these steps if you hit a deer.

  1. If you’re able, turn on your hazard lights and move your car to the side of the road for your safety.
  2. Call 911 and tell dispatch where you are, report any injuries, and relay if there are car parts or if the deer is in the middle of the road.
  3. If you are injured, sit still until paramedics can tend to your care. If you’re uninjured, it’s light out and it’s safe to do so, get out of your vehicle to document the scene for your insurance claim. Do not leave your vehicle if it’s dark out because other drivers may not see you.
  4. Consider filing a police report. While it’s not legally required in all states, it’s a good idea to file one to:
    1. Report vehicle damage for your insurance claim
    2. Report if the deer died or was badly injured
    3. Report any injuries for passengers in your vehicle
  5. Call your insurance agent find out if you need to file an auto claim.

Don’t wait for an accident—check now to make sure you’re covered

Do you have the right coverage in the event of a deer-vehicle collision? For Grange customers, make sure you have Other Than Collision Coverage on your auto policy. If you have questions about your auto policy, talk to your independent agent.


References  
CNN 
Current Biology 
Deer Association 
WDTV 

 

Coverages described herein may not be available in all states. Please contact a local independent Grange agent for complete details on coverages and discounts. If the policy coverage descriptions herein conflict with the language in the policy, the language in the policy applies. The material provided above is for informational, educational, or suggestion purposes and does not imply coverage. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO QUOTE ANY INDIVIDUAL PREMIUM RATE FOR THE INSURANCE HEREIN ADVERTISED. Grange Insurance policies are underwritten by Grange Insurance Company, Trustgard Insurance Company, Grange Indemnity Insurance Company, Grange Insurance Company of Michigan and Grange Property & Casualty Insurance Company*. Not all companies are licensed in all states. *Not licensed in Pennsylvania.


Related resources