October means increased risk of deer-vehicle collisions

Most deer-vehicle collisions occur during October and November when deer are most active during the breeding phase. But there are steps drivers can take to avoid these collisions which can be costly to repair.

Through September 1, 2020, American Family has paid more than $66 million to more than 30,000 customers who experiences animal-vehicle collisions. In 2019, American Family Insurance paid more than $153 million to more than 65,000 customers around the country who had vehicular run-ins with animals. That number is up from approximately $149 million and 40,000 customers in 2018. The average paid per claim remains above $2,000.

In 2019, American Family saw the most claims in Wisconsin, Missouri, Minnesota and Kansas. Most deer-vehicle collisions occur during October and November when deer are most active during the breeding phase.

Drivers can reduce the chances of injury and vehicle damage by keeping these tips in mind:

• Stay alert and avoid distractions while driving, including your phone. Check the road and roadside ahead, and actively look for deer. Pay close attention at dawn and dusk, when visibility is low and deer are on the move.
• Take extra caution when driving through deer crossing zones as these are heavy traffic areas for deer.
• If you see a deer on the road, brake firmly and blow your horn. Deer often fixate on headlights, so it may not be effective to just flash your lights.
• If you can’t stop, don’t swerve. Swerving can lead to greater injury if you hit a tree or another vehicle.
• If you see a deer cross the road up ahead, take caution and watch for other deer as they often - travel in groups.

Always wear your seatbelt. Most people injured in deer-vehicle crashes were not buckled.

I hit a deer, now what do I do?

• Move your car off the road, if possible, and turn on your hazard lights.
• You may be legally required to report an accident with significant vehicle damage, depending on state laws. This documentation will also be helpful when filing a claim with your insurance company.
• Take photos of your car and the accident scene but stay off the road and away from the animal. A wounded animal can become frightened and may act aggressively.
• Contact your insurance company to report your claim. Collision with an animal is covered under the comprehensive section of your auto insurance policy. Since comprehensive coverage is optional, be sure to check your auto insurance policy for specific coverages.

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About the American Family Insurance group

Based in Madison, Wisconsin, American Family Insurance has been serving customers since 1927. We inspire, protect and restore dreams through our insurance products, exceptional service from our agency owners and employees, community investment and creative partnerships to address societal challenges. We act on our belief in diversity and inclusion by constantly evolving to meet customer needs and preferences. American Family Insurance group is the nation’s 13th-largest property/casualty insurance group, ranking No. 254 on the Fortune 500 list. The group sells American Family-brand products, primarily through exclusive agency owners in 19 states. The American Family Insurance group also includes CONNECT, powered by American Family Insurance (formerly Ameriprise Auto & Home), The General, Homesite and Main Street America. Across these companies the group has more than 13,500 employees nationwide.