Tips to Be Safe From Deer Collisions
                      
Tips to Be Safe From Deer Collisions 
 
Thursday, October 19th, 2023. 
When the autumn season paints the world with vibrant hues and natural beauty, it's essential to stay vigilant on the 
roads to avoid unexpected encounters with deer and other wildlife. These tips will not only keep you safe but also help 
prevent costly repairs and insurance claims. 
 
 
 
 
Be Cautious During Mating Season 
Insurance claims for collisions with animals, particularly deer, rise significantly during the fall, with November being the 
peak period. In fact, November sees more than double the average monthly animal strike claims and nearly 3.5 times 
the claims seen in August, the least likely month for such incidents. On average, a November animal strike claim costs 
around $4,600, according to the IIHS. 
Stay Vigilant Year-Round 
While fall is notorious for deer activity, data from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) reminds us to exercise vigilance 
throughout the year. Animal-related motorist fatalities also spike in the spring and summer. This reinforces the 
importance of being alert when driving, as deer aren't the sole road hazard. 
Understand Deer Behavior 
Deer are usually active at dawn, around 7 p.m. Therefore, use your high beams during these hours to improve visibility 
and increase your chances of spotting them. 
Brake, Don't Swerve 
In the event of an animal crossing your path, it's safer to brake in a straight line rather than making a sudden swerve. 
Swerving can lead to hitting another vehicle or losing control of your car, making a collision with the animal a better 
option for your safety. 
Assume There Are More 
Deer often travel in groups, so if you spot one crossing the road, be prepared for more to follow. It is true that where 
there is one, there are usually more. 
Avoid Relying on Deer Whistles 
Deer whistles, aftermarket devices some drivers attach to their vehicles, aim to scare off animals. However, animal 
behavior remains unpredictable, even with these devices. 
Buckle Up 
Wearing a seat belt is your best defense against minimizing risk in a crash. A study by the IIHS found that a significant 
number of people killed in animal-vehicle collisions weren't wearing seat belts. 
Know What to Do After a Collision 
If you do collide with an animal, safely move your vehicle off the road, call the police or animal control, and refrain from 
approaching or touching the injured animal. Document the scene and contact your insurance company once you are 
home. Auto insurance policies generally cover damage from animal collisions under comprehensive insurance, which 
also includes theft and physical damage from non-collision causes. 
 
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Know the Risk by State 
The likelihood of a driver hitting an animal can vary significantly by state. Based on data from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 
2023, the states with the highest chances of animal collisions are West Virginia, Montana, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and 
Wisconsin, in that order. 
Stay Alert Year-Round 
Animal collisions can happen at any time, but they are most prevalent from October through December, during hunting 
and mating seasons. Pay attention to "deer crossing" and "wildlife crossing" signs, especially in areas near woods or 
water, and use high beams to illuminate dark roads when necessary. 
Watch for Deer Herds 
If you spot one deer on the road, there's a good chance that more are nearby. Be cautious and anticipate additional 
animals. 
Do Not Use a Deer Whistle 
As mentioned earlier, there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of car-mounted deer whistles. 
As for the recent dip in animal strike claims, it remains a mystery, with no clear explanation. While advancements like 
automatic emergency braking and improved headlights aim to reduce animal strikes, the availability of these systems 
has not significantly increased to explain the decrease in claims. Despite this, staying alert and following these safety tips 
will continue to be the best defense against animal collisions. 
 
 
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