Tom's Blog
It’s that time of year again! No, I don’t mean holiday season; but ‘tis the time of year for more deer to be on the roads. Deer collisions with autos happen more than you may realize. In fact, the Insurance Information Institute (III) estimates that as many as 1.5 million auto collisions with deer happen each year; and in the state of North Carolina, the likelihood of it happening to you may increase since N.C. has a bursting deer population. If a deer comes into your path while driving, do you know how to avoid hitting a deer on the road?
Sunrise, Sunset
The time between October and December, there is an increase in the volume of deer on the roadways, especially during sunrise and sunset, because this is when deer are most active. There are tips to use as a guideline to help avoid a collision with deer during these upcoming months and any time during the year. Following these tips won’t foolproof an accident with deer, but if you do collide with a deer, you will have a better idea on how to handle the situation.
Safety Tips to Help Avoid Deer in Your Path
- Pay Attention to Deer Crossing Signs- In wooded and heavily deer populated areas along the highway, you may notice deer crossing signs. In these areas, use extra caution and reduce speed.
- Use High Beams- Using high beams may increase your visibility during dusk and dawn, making deer more visible.
- Reduce Speed During Sunrise and Sunset- Since this is the most active time for deer and visibility may be limited, it is best to use caution and reduce your speed.
- Wear Your Seatbelt- You should always wear your seatbelt; however if you do encounter a deer, it will help keep you safe and minimize your chances of injury.
- Observe Your Surroundings- Always be aware of upcoming traffic slowing down, grassy areas of the medians, shoulder of the road, and oncoming traffic.
- Keep Your Windshield Clean- By keeping your windshield clean, it reduces glare and enhances your chances of seeing deer along the roadway/highway.
When A Collision Happens
No matter how careful you are, sometimes hitting a deer can’t be avoided and knowing how to handle the situation is important. Below are some helpful tips to follow should it happen to you.
- Don’t Swerve- If a deer does come into your path, your first reaction may be to swerve, but swerving may mean hitting another car or tree, which may end up being way more severe than hitting the deer.
- Don’t Speed Up- Speeding up to avoid a deer coming into your path may increase the chances of hitting the deer at a higher velocity.
- Pull Over When Safe- If you do impact with a deer, pull over as soon as possible to a safe area to avoid further damages, either from the injured deer or traffic.
- Contact the Police- If you do hit a deer, it is best to notify the police department for evidence and take photos to document the damages.
- Notify Your N.C. Independent Insurance Agent- Auto collisions with deer fall under the comprehensive portion of your N.C. auto insurance policy. Since this is an optional type of auto coverage, your independent insurance agent can advise whether you have this coverage under your auto insurance policy and how to proceed from there.
If you don’t have comprehensive coverage under your N.C. auto insurance policy or are unsure if you have this type of coverage, contact our offices at 866-869-3335 to let us assist you. Drive safely!
