How Drivers can Steer Clear of Deer

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October through December is high deer season, during which there is a “dramatic increase in the movement of the deer population,” according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Deer and cars have never been a good combo, and in recent years Bambi and her ilk have presented an increasing danger to drivers, mainly due to habitat encroachment (ours sprawling into theirs).

Each year deer/car collisions cause thousand of injuries—and hundreds of deaths. Additionally, the average cost per accident, when you factor in bodily injury and vehicle damage, totals over $10,000.

According to a recent study done by State Farm, these states have the highest number of deer-car collisions:

  1. Pennsylvania
  2. Michigan
  3. Illinois
  4. Ohio
  5. Georgia
  6. Minnesota
  7. Virginia
  8. Indiana
  9. Texas
  10. Wisconsin

The good news is that wherever you live, vigilant driving works. (The bad news is that that deer whistle you just mounted to the Buick’s bumper doesn’t work.)

After a vigorous public awareness campaign, Pennsylvania-based Erie Insurance saw a 6 percent reduction in deer-related auto claims. The takeaway? Regular reminders of the hazards will keep collisions down.

Here’s what you can do to minimize the risk of hitting a deer:

  • Be attentive at night and the early morning
  • Use your high beams when appropriate
  • Wear your seat belt
  • Avoid distractions like phones, food and radios
  • Drive sober
  • Brake firmly but do not jerk the wheel when you see a deer

Additionally, you city slickers take note: deer aren’t just in the sticks and the ‘burbs—they’re common in urban areas too.

If you do hit a deer, the Insurance Information Institute recommends the following steps:

  • Do not touch the deer (“A frightened and wounded deer can hurt you or further injure itself.”)
  • Get your car off the road, if possible
  • Call the police
  • Call your insurance agent or company representative to report any damage to your car

Collision with an animal is covered under the comprehensive—not collision, oddly enough—portion of your auto insurance policy.

And here’s a parting factoid you can share with your friends and family: Deer kill more people in a year than mountain lions and bears have killed in the last 100 years.

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