Do You Have to Pay a Deductible if You Hit a Deer?
Unpack auto insurance complexities after an animal collision. Learn how deductibles apply and navigate the claim process for deer damage.
Auto insurance provides financial protection for vehicle owners against various unforeseen events. Incidents such as collisions with animals, like deer, can cause significant damage to a vehicle. Understanding how an auto insurance policy responds to such events helps policyholders manage potential repair costs and other financial impacts.
Understanding Auto Insurance Coverage for Animal Collisions
Auto insurance policies include different types of coverage. Collision coverage addresses damage to your vehicle from impacts with another vehicle or object, or if your car rolls over. This coverage is for accidents where your vehicle collides with something due to your driving actions.
In contrast, comprehensive coverage protects against damages to your vehicle from events other than collisions. This includes incidents like theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, and impacts with animals. If your vehicle is damaged after hitting a deer, elk, or other animal, it is typically covered under the comprehensive portion of your policy.
When a Deductible Applies
When damage to your vehicle is covered under comprehensive insurance, a deductible applies. The deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket towards a covered loss before your insurance company pays. For instance, if you have a $500 comprehensive deductible and your vehicle sustains $2,000 in covered damage, you pay the initial $500, and your insurer covers the remaining $1,500.
The deductible shares risk between the policyholder and insurer. The amount is chosen when the policy is purchased, with common amounts ranging from $100 to $1,000 or more. If the total cost to repair the damage is less than or equal to your comprehensive deductible, the insurance company will not pay anything, and you would be responsible for the full repair cost. In such a scenario, filing a claim may not be financially beneficial.
Deciding Whether to File a Claim
After vehicle damage from an animal collision, deciding whether to file an insurance claim is key. This choice depends on comparing the estimated repair cost to your comprehensive deductible. If the repair estimate is only slightly higher than your deductible, or even less, paying for repairs yourself might be more practical.
Filing a claim, even for a comprehensive loss, can influence future insurance premiums. While comprehensive claims are viewed differently than at-fault collision claims, insurers consider overall claim history when calculating rates. Evaluate whether the financial benefit of an insurance payout outweighs the potential for a future premium adjustment. Obtaining a repair estimate before contacting your insurer allows for an informed decision.
What to Do After Hitting a Deer
After hitting a deer, ensure safety first. Move your vehicle to a safe location, such as the side of the road, and turn on your hazard lights. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries; seek medical attention immediately if anyone is hurt.
Contact local law enforcement or animal control to report the incident, as required by local regulations or if the animal poses a hazard. Document the scene by taking photographs of your vehicle’s damage, the animal (if it’s safe to do so), and the surrounding area. These photos can be important for your insurance claim.
Contact your insurance provider to report the incident and initiate the claims process. Provide them with all documented information, including photos and any police report numbers. They will guide you through the next steps, which involve assessing damage and arranging repairs.