How to Avoid Deer-Related Car Accidents

Knowing the Facts About Deer Activity Can Help You Stay Safe on the Road

As cooler
months approach, deer-related car accidents are more likely to occur. Between October
and January, it is more common for deer to be out and about during their mating season, but they also are looking for
food and shelter during the colder months. We sat down with our corporate claims specialists to discuss deer
related claims. Here’s what you need to know:

You are More Likely to Hit a Deer Between 7 P.M. and 7 A.M.

Obviously,
this isn’t always possible but if you are able to limit driving time during
these hours, it can really help! Unfortunately, things like your work or school schedules may conflict with a deer’s schedule from
time to time. However, if you are able to leave earlier or later, driving
during daylight hours can be extremely helpful in avoiding a collision. Remember,
deer do move around outside of these hours, so it’s important to be aware of
your surroundings when driving, regardless of what time it is.

You are More Likely to Hit a Deer in Rural Areas

With that
being said, you need to drive cautiously regardless of where you are. Just
because you are driving through a more populated area doesn’t mean deer won’t
be crossing. Deer have been known to find their way into busy roadways, far
away from their typical habitat. Even if you aren’t driving in a rural area,
you should always be watching for deer as well as other animals and road obstructions.

The Number of Accidents Are Rising

As the deer
population continues to grow, deer-related collisions are inevitable. Between
2017 and 2019, deer-related claims increased 21.8%.  Additionally, as vehicles become more advanced
and more deer are present, the average claim payment will continue to increase
over time. The average amount paid in animal collision-related damages has increased
12.5% since 2016. More recent research suggests that there were over 1.9
million animal collision insurance claims placed in the U.S. between July 1,
2019 and June 30, 2020. While this information isn’t surprising, it is good to
keep in the back of your mind.

How to Help Avoid
a Deer-Related Car Accident

Using these
driving tips can help you avoid a deer-related car accident.Use your
high beams when possibleWatch for
glowing eyesAlways drive
defensively and with caution Stay alertWatch for
deer-crossing zonesDeer move in
herds–if you see one, expect more to follow

What to Do if
You Do Hit A Deer?

If you do hit a deer, it’s important to have an action
plan. Although this can be a nerve-racking situation, it is critical that you
stay calm, move to the side of the road, and call 911 immediately if you or a
passenger are injured.

Once you’ve
had a moment to catch your breath, you’ll want to call
your insurance agent
to report possible damages. Understanding your policy and knowing what is
covered will be helpful in the case of a deer-related collision. For
information regarding an auto insurance policy with NYCM insurance, check out
the link below to contact one of our local agents.