Deer Danger: Navigating the Rise in Accidents During the Fall

Every year, numerous drivers experience collisions with deer. Although these incidents can happen at any time, they are most frequent during the fall as deer are more active due to their mating season and the opening of hunting season. The highest risk times for these collisions are around dusk and sunrise when visibility is lower and deer are more likely to be on the move.

Here are some statistics on deer collisions from the Hausmann Group Claims team:

• Over the last 3 years deer strikes account for 11% of all auto claims our agency manages.
• October and November are consistently the busiest claim months for deer strikes.
• So far, we’re on pace to have the highest November claim count over the last 4 years.
• Frequency consistently improves in December, and January is one of the safest months for Hausmann Group clients.

To help avoid collisions, follow these driving tips:

• Be especially alert for deer in the fall and spring and around sunrise and sunset.
• Watch for “deer crossing” signs, as they are posted where deer have been known to cross the roadway.
• Do not depend on mechanical devices, such as deer whistles; tests indicate that they do not work.
• Use your high beams when there is no oncoming traffic to help visibility.
• Scan the sides of the road to spot deer.
• If you see one deer, expect that others are nearby - deer are herd animals and rarely travel alone.
• If you see a deer on the road, slow down and blow your horn. Do not flash your headlights as that may confuse the deer. Turn on your emergency flashers to warn other drivers.
• If deer are on the side of the road, assume they will bolt out in front of you and drive very slowly past them.
• Do not try to swerve to avoid hitting a deer. Abruptly turning the vehicle may make you lose control and result in a more severe collision than hitting the deer.
  
  

If you do collide with a deer, you should take the following steps, if possible:

• Turn on your emergency flashers.
• Move your vehicle off the traveled portion of the roadway.
• Contact the police to report the collision.
• Do not go near the deer unless you are sure it is dead, as it may become violent if it is scared or injured.
• Contact the Hausmann Group Claims team. We can help submit the claim and ensure the process goes smoothly.