Does Car Insurance Cover Hitting a Deer in Idaho?

Fall is one of the times of year when drivers in North Idaho tend to see more deer and wildlife along the roads. Early mornings, evenings, rural highways, and wooded areas can all bring a higher chance of unexpectedly encountering an animal in the roadway.

So what happens if you hit a deer? Does your auto insurance cover the damage?

In many cases, damage caused by hitting a deer or other animal falls under comprehensive coverage, rather than collision coverage.

Comprehensive insurance generally helps cover damage to your vehicle caused by certain events other than a typical collision with another vehicle. Depending on your policy, that may include things like theft, vandalism, hail, falling objects, and animal strikes.

If you carry only liability insurance, damage to your own vehicle from hitting a deer generally would not be covered. Liability coverage is designed primarily to protect you when you are responsible for injuries or damage to someone else.

That distinction is important, especially in North Idaho where wildlife collisions are a real possibility.

If you hit a deer, there are a few things you should do if it is safe:

• Pull over and turn on your hazard lights.
• Avoid approaching an injured animal.
• Contact law enforcement if the animal is creating a road hazard or if the accident is serious.
• Take photos of the damage and the scene.
• Contact your insurance company or agent to report the claim.

It is also a good idea to review your comprehensive deductible before you ever need to use the coverage. If you have a $500 or $1,000 deductible, for example, that amount will typically affect what you pay out of pocket on a covered claim.

Drivers should also be extra cautious during dawn and dusk when deer are often more active. Slow down in areas known for wildlife, watch the shoulders of the road, and remember that deer often travel in groups. If you see one, there may be more nearby.

Trying to swerve aggressively to avoid an animal can sometimes lead to an even more serious accident, especially on rural or icy roads.

Bottom line: if you hit a deer in Idaho, comprehensive auto insurance may help cover damage to your vehicle, depending on your policy and deductible. If you are unsure whether you carry comprehensive coverage, fall is a good time to take a quick look at your auto policy.