PITTSBURGH — Deer cause 1 million accidents every year that kill 200 Americans, injure 10,000, and cause $1 billion in vehicle damage, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This time of year, fewer daylight hours and colder temperatures mean bad news for drivers, with deer causing more accidents in October, November and December than any other time, according to AAA.
“Make sure you are scanning the road ahead of you, use your high beams, and put away the distractions. Make sure that your eyes are always peeled on the road because you never know when they are going to jump right in front of your car,” said Tiffany Stanley of AAA East Central.
While hitting a deer might be inevitable in some situations, AAA said there are things you should do before that happens, starting with checking your comprehensive coverage on your insurance policy.
“That covers everything other than collision, including animal claims,” Stanley said. “‘Liability only’ is not going to cover it.”
While that could mean a higher premium, it could save you money in the long run, so now is a good time to check in with your agent. Other things to keep in mind: Deer are most active from 5 to 8 o’clock, both in the morning and evening, so be extra vigilant during those times. If you do see one coming, AAA said resist the urge to swerve.
“In the worst-case scenario, going into oncoming traffic, so that can make a bad situation even worse, or possibly fatal,” Stanley said.
There’s something else to consider — AAA said deer rarely travel alone, so if you see one, there’s likely more about to cross or nearby.
AAA Insurance said that its average deer-related claim in the region is about $5,000, though costs can be much higher, depending on the damage to the vehicle.
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