Does Full Coverage Cover Hitting a Deer?
Understand if your car insurance covers deer collisions. This guide clarifies "full coverage" and explains what applies when you hit an animal.
Collisions with deer are a common concern for drivers. Millions of animal-related vehicle incidents occur annually, often leading to significant vehicle damage. Many drivers mistakenly believe that “full coverage” insurance automatically protects them in such scenarios. This term, however, is a common phrase referring to a combination of different insurance coverages, not a single, all-encompassing policy. Understanding the specific components of an auto insurance policy is important for knowing how damage from hitting a deer might be covered.
Understanding “Full Coverage” and Animal Collisions
The concept of “full coverage” in auto insurance is a colloquial term, not an actual policy type. It typically refers to a policy that includes various coverages, such as liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, designed to provide broad protection. When a vehicle strikes an animal, such as a deer, the damage is generally covered under the comprehensive portion of the auto insurance policy.
Comprehensive coverage covers damage to a vehicle from non-collision events. These incidents include theft, vandalism, fire, falling objects, natural disasters, and damage caused by animals. This coverage is sometimes called “other than collision” coverage.
Collision coverage pays for damage to a vehicle from an impact with another vehicle or object, such as a tree, pole, or guardrail. If a driver swerves to avoid a deer and collides with another object or vehicle, the damage typically falls under collision coverage, not comprehensive. This distinction affects how a claim is processed and which deductible applies.
A deductible is an amount the policyholder pays out-of-pocket before their insurance coverage begins to pay for the remaining approved costs of a claim. Comprehensive coverage claims, including those for animal collisions, typically involve a deductible. Deductible amounts can vary, commonly ranging from $100 to $2,000, and choosing a higher deductible can often lower insurance premiums.
Immediate Steps After Hitting a Deer
After hitting a deer, prioritize safety. If possible, move the vehicle to a safe location off the road and activate hazard lights. Check for injuries to yourself or passengers and seek medical attention if needed.
Drivers should avoid approaching the injured or deceased animal. A wounded animal can be unpredictable and dangerous, potentially causing further harm. Instead, remain in a safe location until authorities arrive. Documenting the scene is also important for any potential insurance claim.
Visual evidence, such as photographs or videos of vehicle damage, the location, and road conditions, can be helpful. Contact local law enforcement or highway patrol, especially if there are injuries, significant vehicle damage, or if the animal obstructs traffic. Some jurisdictions may require reporting the incident for insurance purposes, and an official police report can aid the claim process.
Navigating Your Insurance Claim
After ensuring safety and gathering initial documentation, contact your insurance provider to file a claim. Policyholders can reach their insurer through a dedicated phone number, online portal, or mobile application. When reporting, provide specific details: policy number, date and time of collision, location, and a clear description of vehicle damage. Any police report number should also be provided.
Once the claim is filed, the insurance company assigns an adjuster. An adjuster investigates the claim, assesses damage, and determines applicable coverage based on policy terms. They review submitted details and may inspect the damaged vehicle to assess the impact. They might also collect recorded statements or review additional information.
The claims process typically involves several stages, including the vehicle inspection, obtaining repair estimates, and discussing options for repair shops. The adjuster will communicate the estimated repair costs and outline how the claim will be settled. When the claim is approved, the deductible amount will be applied, meaning the policyholder pays this portion directly, and the insurer covers the remaining costs up to the policy’s limits. The insurance company will then process the payment, which may be issued directly to the repair shop or reimbursed to the policyholder, depending on the arrangement.