Deer-vehicle collisions can be dangerous and costly. In the United States alone, these types of collisions result in over 1.5 million crashes each year, causing an average of 200 fatalities and more than $1 billion in damages.
It is important to know how to tell if you missed a deer and what to do in the event of a collision in order to stay safe and protect yourself and your vehicle.
If you’re driving and suddenly see a deer or other large animal in front of your vehicle, your first instinct may be to swerve or brake in order to avoid a collision. But even if you manage to avoid hitting the deer, it can be difficult to know for sure whether or not you actually missed it.
Here are a few signs that you may have missed a deer:
Swerving or sudden braking
If you had to swerve or brake suddenly to avoid hitting a deer, it’s likely that you missed it. However, it’s important to remain vigilant, as deer can move quickly and unpredictably. Be sure to check your surroundings and look for any other deer that may be nearby.
Damage to your vehicle
If you hit a deer or other large animal, there is a good chance that you will sustain some damage to your vehicle. Look for dents, scratches, or other visible damage that may have been caused by the collision.
Presence of deer hair or debris on your vehicle
If you missed a deer, it’s possible that some of the animal’s hair or debris may have been left behind on your vehicle. Look for any visible evidence of the deer, such as tufts of hair or bits of tissue.
Sighting of a deer in your rearview or side mirrors
If you see a deer in your rearview or side mirrors after the initial encounter, it’s a good indication that you missed it. Be sure to keep an eye out for any other deer that may be nearby.
What to do if you think you missed a deer?
Stop your vehicle and check for damage
If you suspect that you missed a deer, it’s important to stop your vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
Once you have come to a complete stop, get out of your vehicle and carefully inspect it for any damage. If you find any damage, take photographs of it for your insurance company.
Look for any injured deer nearby
If you see an injured deer nearby, do not approach it.
Deer can be dangerous when they are injured, and they may kick or bite in self-defense. Instead, call your local animal control agency or the police for assistance.
Call the police to report the incident and get an accident report
If you hit a deer or if you suspect that you missed one, it’s important to call the police and report the incident. The police will investigate the accident and file an official report, which may be necessary for insurance purposes.
Contact your insurance company to report the accident
If you hit a deer or sustained any damage to your vehicle, be sure to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Your insurance company will likely need a copy of the police report, as well as any photographs you took of the damage to your vehicle.
Tips for avoiding deer-vehicle collisions
Be alert and watch for deer, especially at dawn and dusk
Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, so it’s important to be extra vigilant during these times. Keep an eye out for deer on the side of the road, and be prepared for them to dart out in front of your vehicle.
Use your high beams when possible to better see the road ahead
Using your high beams can help you see the road ahead more clearly, which can be especially helpful in areas with high deer populations. Be sure to turn off your high beams when you are driving behind another vehicle, as they can be blinding to other drivers.
Slow down, especially in areas with high deer populations
Slowing down can give you more time to react to any deer that may be in your path. Be especially cautious when driving through areas with high deer populations, such as rural or wooded areas.
If you see one deer, be prepared for others to be nearby
Deer often travel in groups, so if you see one deer, be prepared for others to be nearby. Keep a safe distance from any deer you see on the side of the road, and be extra cautious when driving through areas with high deer populations.
Conclusion
Deer-vehicle collisions can be dangerous and costly. Deer-vehicle collisions can result in serious injuries and costly damages.
By following the tips outlined in this article, you can help reduce your risk of a collision and stay safe on the road.
By being alert and vigilant, using your high beams when appropriate, slowing down in areas with high deer populations, and being prepared for other deer to be nearby, you can help reduce your risk of a deer-vehicle collision. Remember to always stay safe and watch out for deer on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I touch or approach a injured deer if I find one on the road?
No, it is not recommended to touch or approach an injured deer.
Deer can be dangerous when they are injured, and they may kick or bite in self-defense. Instead, call your local animal control agency or the police for assistance.
Is it necessary to report a deer-vehicle collision to the police?
Yes, it is important to report a deer-vehicle collision to the police. The police will investigate the accident and file an official report, which may be necessary for insurance purposes.
If I suspect that I missed a deer, should I stop my vehicle and get out to inspect it for damage?
Yes, if you suspect that you missed a deer, it is important to stop your vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so and carefully inspect it for any damage. If you find any damage, take photographs of it for your insurance company.
Can deer-vehicle collisions be prevented altogether?
While it is not possible to completely eliminate the risk of a deer-vehicle collision, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include being alert and vigilant, using your high beams when appropriate, slowing down in areas with high deer populations, and being prepared for other deer to be nearby.
Is it necessary to contact my insurance company if I only missed a deer and did not sustain any damage to my vehicle?
If you missed a deer but did not sustain any damage to your vehicle, it is not necessary to contact your insurance company. However, it is always a good idea to be aware of your insurance policy and the types of events that are covered.
If you are unsure whether or not you should contact your insurance company in a particular situation, it is best to consult your policy or speak with a representative from your insurance company.