When you have a deer in the headlights, what do you do? You may want to make sure that you have the right kind of insurance coverage to protect you in case a deer runs in front of your vehicle.
Are Accidents With Deer Common?
A common cause of vehicle accidents is collisions with deer. Each year, there may be as many as 1.5 million vehicle accidents involving deer. In some states, such as West Virginia and Montana, one in 37 drivers report hitting a deer. Accidents involving deer are also more common in the fall, from October to December.
Will Your Insurance Policy Cover Hitting a Deer?
You might be surprised to learn that your state-mandated liability policy won’t cover injuries or damage to your car after hitting a deer. Liability insurance only covers damage and injuries to others. Collision coverage pays for damage to your car from collisions with other vehicles and objects. Deer accidents also will not be covered by collision insurance, along with damage due to theft, vandalism, and fire.
Do You Need Comprehensive Insurance?
When you hit a deer, you need a comprehensive policy, such as from a personal insurance Grayslake IL company, to pay for damage to your car. A comprehensive policy will also cover damage or replacement because of falling objects, fire, vandalism, and theft. You may have to pay a certain amount called a deductible out of pocket for your claim, but the insurance will pay the rest to the limit you have set in your policy.
Comprehensive insurance will cover you for collisions with deer or if a falling object like a tree damages your car. If your car is damaged by a deer or a falling tree, make sure you have adequate coverage by talking with a licensed insurance agent.
