In Ohio, deer collisions are a common occurrence, especially during the fall when deer are more active due to mating season. Hitting a deer can be a stressful and unsettling experience, but knowing what to do immediately after the accident can make the situation more manageable.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the actions you should take after a deer collision, from ensuring your safety to filing an insurance claim and getting your vehicle repaired.

1. Stay Safe

The first priority after any accident is ensuring your safety and the safety of your passengers. Here’s what to do:

• Pull Over Safely: If possible, pull your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that there’s an issue.
• Stay Inside Your Vehicle: Deer can still be a hazard after an accident, and approaching a wounded animal can be dangerous. Additionally, stepping out of your car on a busy road puts you at risk of being struck by another vehicle. It’s usually safer to stay inside until help arrives unless there is an immediate threat.
• Check for Injuries: Make sure that you and your passengers are not injured. If anyone needs medical attention, call 911 immediately.

2. Document the Scene

Proper documentation of the accident is crucial when filing an insurance claim. Here’s how to handle it:

• Call the Police: In Ohio, it’s often a good idea to report the accident to local authorities, especially if the damage is severe or if the deer is blocking the road. An official police report can be valuable when filing your insurance claim.
• Take Photos: Use your phone to take clear photos of the damage to your vehicle, the surrounding area, and the deer (from a safe distance). Include any skid marks, road signs, and the direction the deer came from. These details can provide important context for your insurance provider.
• Note the Time and Location: Jot down the exact time, date, and location of the collision. This information will be helpful when you report the accident to your insurance company.
• Avoid Touching the Deer: As mentioned earlier, injured deer can be unpredictable. If the animal is blocking traffic, wait for authorities to arrive and handle it.

3. Notify Your Insurance Provider

Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety and documented the scene, it’s time to contact your insurance provider. Most insurance companies have procedures in place to handle deer collisions, particularly in Ohio, where these types of accidents are common. Here's how to approach this step:

• Understand Your Coverage: In most cases, damage from hitting a deer falls under comprehensive insurance coverage, not collision coverage. If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance should cover the cost of repairs (minus your deductible). Before filing a claim, review your policy to understand your deductible and any specific requirements.
• Contact Your Insurance Company: Call your insurance provider to report the accident. Provide them with all the necessary details, including your photos, police report, and information about the damage. Major providers like State Farm, Nationwide, and Travelers offer online claim submissions and mobile apps to simplify the process.
• Follow Instructions: Your insurance company may ask you to visit an approved repair shop or have an adjuster assess the damage. At this point, you’ll be asked to pay your deductible, after which your insurance will cover the remaining repair costs, depending on your policy limits.

4. Why Prompt Collision Repair is Important

Even if the damage from a deer collision seems minor, it’s crucial to get your vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible. Here’s why:

• Hidden Damage: Deer collisions often result in more than just cosmetic damage. The impact can affect your vehicle’s alignment, suspension, and even its engine. Promptly taking your car to a local body shop ensures that all damage is identified and repaired, preventing further issues down the line.
• Safety Concerns: Driving a damaged vehicle can pose a serious safety risk. A cracked windshield, broken headlights, or misaligned wheels can compromise your ability to see and navigate the road safely. By addressing these issues right away, you’ll be protecting yourself and others on the road.
• Insurance Requirements: Some insurance policies require you to have repairs completed within a certain timeframe after an accident. Failing to do so could result in the denial of your claim. Promptly repairing your vehicle ensures that you remain in compliance with your insurance company’s guidelines.
• Resale Value: If you plan to sell your vehicle in the future, addressing repairs immediately can help maintain its value. Unrepaired damage can lead to further deterioration and reduced resale value.

At D&S Automotive, we specialize in handling deer collision repairs. With five convenient locations across Northeast Ohio, including Mentor, Chardon, Elyria, and Kirtland, we’re equipped to assess and repair any damage caused by a deer collision. Our team works directly with insurance companies like State Farm, Nationwide, and Travelers to ensure a smooth and efficient repair process.

Preventing Deer Collisions: Proactive Steps

While deer collisions can happen to anyone, there are some precautions you can take to reduce your chances of hitting a deer:

• Be Extra Cautious at Dusk and Dawn: Deer are most active during these times, especially in the fall. Slow down and stay alert when driving during these hours.
• Watch for Deer Crossing Signs: These signs are placed in areas where deer frequently cross the road. Pay attention to them, as they can help you anticipate when you might encounter wildlife.
• Use High Beams When Possible: If you’re driving on a dark, rural road and there’s no oncoming traffic, using your high beams can help you spot deer from a greater distance. This gives you more time to react.
• Don’t Swerve: If a deer jumps in front of your vehicle, it’s natural to want to swerve to avoid it. However, this can lead to more serious accidents, such as hitting another car or losing control of your vehicle. Instead, brake firmly and stay in your lane.

Conclusion: Handle Deer Collisions with Confidence

Deer collisions are a reality for many Ohio drivers, especially during the fall. By staying calm, documenting the scene, and promptly contacting your insurance provider, you can ensure that the damage is properly addressed and that your vehicle is safe to drive. Remember, comprehensive insurance is your key to covering the cost of repairs, and choosing a reputable collision center, like D&S Automotive, will help you get back on the road as quickly as possible.

If you’ve recently experienced a deer collision and need repairs, contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our five Northeast Ohio locations:

• Mentor Collision Center: (440) 946-2178
• Chardon Collision Center: (440) 279-4615
• East Mentor Collision Center: (440) 255-5400
• Elyria Collision Center: (440) 366-5696
• Kirtland Collision Center: (440) 367-8135

We’ll work with your insurance company to make the repair process as smooth as possible and get you back on the road safely.