If you’ve ever asked, “Is hitting a deer covered by comprehensive or collision insurance?” The short answer is: comprehensive insurance typically covers deer accidents. However, it’s important to understand how comprehensive and collision insurance differ and what each type of coverage entails, especially in the context of deer-related accidents. Let’s break it down to help you make sure your car is protected.

Comprehensive vs. Collision Insurance: What's the Difference?

• Comprehensive Insurance: This type of coverage helps protect your car from damage not caused by a collision with another vehicle. It covers events like natural disasters, theft, vandalism, and animal strikes, including hitting a deer. If you hit a deer and file a claim, comprehensive coverage will typically handle the repair costs (minus your deductible).
• Collision Insurance: Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle from crashes with other vehicles or objects. This type of coverage kicks in if you hit another car, a tree, or a fence—but it does not cover hitting a deer or other animals.

In summary, if you’re involved in a deer collision, comprehensive insurance is what will cover the damages to your car, not collision insurance.

How Insurance Companies Handle Deer Collision Claims

Insurance companies like State Farm, Nationwide, and Travelers offer comprehensive insurance policies that cover deer-related accidents. Here's a quick overview of how the claims process works with these major insurers:

• State Farm: As the largest auto insurer in the U.S., State Farm covers deer collisions under comprehensive insurance. You’ll need to file a claim through their website, mobile app, or by calling their claims center. After assessing the damage, they will provide an estimate and approve repairs minus your deductible.
• Nationwide: Nationwide also covers deer accidents under comprehensive insurance. To file a claim, you can contact Nationwide by phone or through their app. They will work with you to assess the damage and handle repairs.
• Travelers: With Travelers, deer collisions are handled under comprehensive coverage. The process involves filing a claim online, over the phone, or through their app, and they will guide you through the repair process.

Regardless of the insurer, always take photos of the scene, document the damage, and report the incident as soon as possible to ensure a smooth claims process.

Why Deer Collisions Are Covered by Comprehensive Insurance

Deer collisions are considered unpredictable and uncontrollable events, which is why they fall under comprehensive coverage rather than collision. Unlike hitting another car, where fault can be assigned, hitting a deer is generally considered unavoidable, making it a "non-collision" incident. This is why comprehensive insurance is the key to protecting your car against these types of accidents.

Important Tips When Filing a Deer Collision Claim

1. Document the Incident: After hitting a deer, take photos of the damage and the surrounding area. This documentation can help streamline the claims process.
2. File the Claim Promptly: Contact your insurance provider—whether it’s State Farm, Nationwide, or Travelers—right away to file the claim. The quicker you report the incident, the faster you can get your car repaired.
3. Understand Your Deductible: Comprehensive insurance comes with a deductible, the amount you’ll need to pay out of pocket before insurance covers the rest. Know your deductible amount so there are no surprises during the claim process.

Preventing Deer Collisions

While comprehensive insurance will cover the damage, it’s always better to avoid an accident in the first place. Here are a few tips to reduce the likelihood of hitting a deer:

• Stay Alert at Dusk and Dawn: Deer are most active during these times, especially in fall and winter when mating season peaks.
• Use High Beams: When driving in rural areas, use your high beams (if safe to do so) to spot deer early.
• Watch for Herds: If you see one deer, expect more. Deer often travel in groups, so if one crosses the road, others are likely nearby.

Conclusion: Comprehensive Insurance is Essential for Deer Collisions

In conclusion, hitting a deer is covered by comprehensive insurance, not collision insurance. Major insurers like State Farm, Nationwide, and Travelers include deer accidents under their comprehensive policies, which help cover the cost of repairs minus your deductible. Make sure to carry comprehensive coverage if you live in an area prone to deer accidents, like Northeast Ohio.

By understanding your coverage and taking proactive measures, you can navigate deer collision claims with confidence. Stay safe on the roads, and if you do experience an unfortunate accident with a deer, D&S Automotive is here to help with expert repair services across Northeast Ohio.