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The explosion in the deer population has lead to a
continuing increase in deer-car collisions. This trend will only
increase as the deer population grows and urban habitats continue to
encroach upon rural environments.
According to the National Safety Council, there were 530,000
animal-related accidents in 2003 and these collisions resulted in 100
deaths and 10,000 injuries.
The average cost per insurance claim for collision damage is $2,800,
with costs varying depending on the type of vehicle and severity of
damage. When you factor in auto claims involving bodily injury, the
average rises to $10,000.
Defensive driving tips to avoid hitting a deer.
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Be especially attentive from sunset to midnight
and during the hours shortly before and after sunrise. These are the
highest risk times for deer-vehicle collisions.
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Drive with caution when moving through
deer-crossing zones, in areas known to have a large deer population
and in areas where roads divide agricultural fields from forestland.
Deer seldom run alone. If you see one deer, others may be nearby.
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When driving at night, use high beam headlights
when there is no oncoming traffic. The high beams will better
illuminate the eyes of deer on or near the roadway.
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Slow down and blow your horn with one long blast
to frighten the deer away.
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Brake firmly when you notice a deer in or near
your path, but stay in your lane. Many serious crashes occur when
drivers swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or lose
control of their cars.
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Always wear your seat belt. Most people injured
in car/deer crashes were not wearing their seat belt.
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Do not rely on devices such as deer whistles,
deer fences and reflectors to deter deer. These devices have not
been proven to reduce deer-vehicle collisions.
If your vehicle strikes a deer, do not touch the
animal. A frightened and wounded deer can hurt you or further injure
itself. The best procedure is to get your car off the road, if possible,
and call the police.
Contact your insurance agent or company representative to report any
damage to your car. Collision with an animal is covered under the
comprehensive portion of your auto insurance policy.
©
Insurance Information Institute,
Inc. - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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