does hitting a deer raise your insurance

3 min read 15-04-2025

does hitting a deer raise your insurance

Meta Description: Discover if hitting a deer will increase your car insurance premiums. We explore factors influencing cost increases, how to file a claim, and steps to minimize the impact on your rates. Learn about deer-related accidents and what to do after a collision.

What Happens When You Hit a Deer? The Impact on Your Insurance

Hitting a deer is unfortunately more common than you might think. The good news is that most insurance companies cover deer-related accidents. The bad news? It's almost certain to affect your premiums. This article will break down exactly how.

Will My Insurance Go Up After Hitting a Deer?

Yes, in most cases, hitting a deer will raise your car insurance premiums. The increase isn't automatic, but it's highly probable. The reason? Insurance companies view it as an at-fault accident, even though the deer wasn't driving a car. You're responsible for controlling your vehicle.

Factors Affecting Your Insurance Rate Increase

Several factors determine how much your insurance will increase after hitting a deer:

The extent of the damage: Minor damage to your vehicle will result in a smaller premium increase compared to significant damage requiring extensive repairs.
Your insurance claims history: If you have a history of filing claims, the impact on your premiums will likely be more significant.
Your insurance company: Different insurance companies have varying policies and pricing structures.
Your state's laws: State regulations influence how insurance companies handle accident claims.
Comprehensive coverage: If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance will likely cover the damages to your car. However, you'll still likely face a premium increase.

How Much Will My Insurance Increase?

There's no single answer to how much your insurance will increase. The increase varies significantly depending on the factors listed above. It could range from a minor percentage increase to a much more substantial one. Contact your insurance provider for a personalized estimate.

What to Do After Hitting a Deer

Following a collision with a deer, several steps can help minimize the impact on your insurance:

Ensure your safety: Check for injuries to yourself and your passengers. Call emergency services if needed.
Assess the damage: Take photos of the damage to your vehicle and the surrounding area.
Report the accident: Contact your local police department to file an accident report.
Contact your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurer immediately. Provide them with all the necessary information, including the police report and photos.
Seek repairs from an approved shop: Using a mechanic recommended by your insurer can help streamline the claims process and potentially avoid disputes.

Can I Avoid an Insurance Increase?

While you can't completely prevent an increase, there are steps you can take to minimize the impact:

Maintain a clean driving record: A history of safe driving can help mitigate the impact of a single at-fault accident.
Shop around for insurance: Compare quotes from multiple insurers to find the best rates after an accident.
Consider increasing your deductible: A higher deductible means lower premiums, but you'll pay more out of pocket if you need repairs.

Comprehensive vs. Collision Coverage: What's the Difference?

Collision coverage: Pays for damage to your car caused by a collision with another vehicle or object, including a deer.
Comprehensive coverage: Covers damage to your vehicle from events other than collisions, such as theft, vandalism, or, yes, hitting an animal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What if I don't have comprehensive coverage?

A: Without comprehensive coverage, you will likely be responsible for paying for the repairs to your vehicle yourself.

Q: Can I file a claim if the damage is minimal?

A: It's best to contact your insurer regardless of the damage extent. Even minor damage can still affect your premiums.

Q: Will my insurance cover the cost of the deer?

A: No, typically your insurance only covers damage to your vehicle, not the animal.

Q: How long does it take for my insurance to adjust the premium after an accident?

A: The timeline varies depending on the insurer and the complexity of the claim. It could take several weeks or even months.

This information is for general guidance only. Always consult with your insurance provider for specific details regarding your policy and coverage. Remember, driving safely and being aware of your surroundings are the best ways to avoid accidents altogether.