Does My Insurance Cover Hitting a Deer?
Encounters with wildlife on the road, particularly deer, can be unsettling and potentially dangerous. If you find yourself in a situation where you've hit a deer with your vehicle, you might wonder if your insurance will cover the damages. The answer depends on the type of insurance coverage you have and the circumstances of the accident. Here's what you need to know:
Comprehensive Coverage
The most common type of insurance that covers damage from hitting a deer is comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive coverage is optional and typically protects you from non-collision-related incidents, such as:
Animal collisions (e.g., hitting a deer)
Theft
Vandalism
Natural disasters (e.g., hail damage)
Falling objects (e.g., a tree branch falling on your car)
If you have comprehensive coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, it can help pay for the repairs or replacement of your vehicle after hitting a deer. However, you'll need to pay your deductible before the insurance company covers the remaining cost. The amount of your deductible varies depending on your policy, so review it carefully.
Collision Coverage
While comprehensive coverage is the primary insurance type for deer collisions, collision coverage may come into play in certain situations. If, for example, swerving to avoid a deer causes you to collide with another vehicle or object (e.g., a guardrail or tree), your collision coverage could apply to those damages.
Liability Coverage
Liability coverage, which is typically required by law, covers damages you cause to others in an accident. However, it does not cover damages to your vehicle, even if the accident involves hitting a deer. Liability coverage protects you from financial responsibility for the injuries or property damage you cause to others in the accident.
Review Your Policy
To determine whether you have comprehensive coverage, collision coverage, or both, review your insurance policy or contact your insurance provider. It's essential to understand your coverage limits and deductible to make an informed decision about filing a claim.
File a Claim
If you have comprehensive coverage and the damage to your vehicle is substantial, you can file a claim with your insurance company. They will guide you through the claims process, which typically includes providing details about the accident, obtaining an estimate for repairs, and paying the deductible.
Consider the Costs
Before filing a claim, consider the extent of the damages and the cost of repairs. If the damage is relatively minor and the cost to repair it is close to or less than your deductible, it may be more cost-effective to pay for the repairs out of pocket rather than filing a claim, which could lead to increased insurance premiums.
In summary, whether your insurance covers hitting a deer depends on the type of coverage you have, specifically comprehensive coverage. Review your policy, consider the damages, and weigh the costs before deciding whether to file a claim. Always contact your insurance provider for guidance and to initiate the claims process if necessary.
Comments