Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a deer or other wildlife?

Does your auto insurance cover damage caused by a deer or other wildlife? To thoroughly understand auto insurance, it is helpful to learn the different types of auto insurance coverage.

It is possible to have collision coverage, as that is a requirement in many states, and not have comprehensive coverage, since that is optional. Surprisingly, if you swerve to miss an animal and hit something else, like a tree, guide rail, or another vehicle, that would be a collision under your collision coverage.

If you have comprehensive coverage, it may also cover damage to the vehicle done by an animal while the auto is parked, such as damage caused by animal infestations. Examples are a raccoon destroying upholstery or rats eating through auto electrical cables.

Companies That Cover Damage Caused by Deer and Other Wildlife

Here are some insurance companies offering affordable comprehensive auto insurance coverage that includes coverage for damage caused by deer or other wildlife.

Progressive

Progressive offers comprehensive coverage. After you pay the deductible, which usually ranges from $100 to $2,000, the comprehensive coverage will cover any excess costs to repair the vehicle for an approved claim.

If the vehicle is totaled, the comprehensive insurance claim will cover the actual cash value of the auto, less the deductible.

Allstate

For Allstate, you will find “damage to your car by animals” listed in the descriptions of comprehensive insurance offered by Allstate.

State Farm

Comprehensive insurance coverage is an option with State Farm, including coverage for being hit by a deer or another animal.

Geico

Geico will cover if you hit a deer and have comprehensive coverage. You do not have to select a limit for comprehensive coverage as an approved claim will pay the expenses for repairs up to the cash value of your auto, less your deductible.

Hitting a Deer or Wild Animal While Driving

If you hit an animal, take the following steps:

1. Move your auto to the side of the roadway and away from the animal if possible.
2. Turn on your hazard lights. Use safety flares and hazard signs if you have them.
3. Call the police to report the accident. Inform the police if the animal is on the road posing a danger to other vehicles.
4. Do not try to move the animal. A frightened, injured animal is hazardous.
5. If it is safe, document the accident with photos you take. You will use these photos for making an insurance claim.

It is considered best practice to use defensive driving techniques and pay careful attention if you are in an area with deer and wildlife that cross the road.

Read more: Does auto insurance cover hitting an animal with car?

Avoiding Hitting Deer or Other Wildlife While Driving

Deer do not understand that lights getting more prominent as they get closer means a vehicle is approaching. The eyes of a deer only have a good perception of things when they move from side to side. This lack of perception is why deer seem to freeze in place when headlights shine directly on them.

To avoid this problem, drive slower at night and use your bright lights to look ahead down the road. Use your horn as you get near any deer on the side of the road to warn them. Be aware that deer are unpredictable and may suddenly jump out in front of your vehicle.

Comprehensive Coverage When You Hit a Deer or Other Wildlife

Comprehensive insurance is more than auto insurance to cover damage caused by a deer or other wildlife. Comprehensive auto insurance covers vandalism, theft, broken glass, fire, and hail damage. For the details, check the specifics of your deductible and the coverage in your auto insurance policy.

Auto Insurance That Covers Hitting Deer and Other Wildlife

Comprehensive coverage is essential if you live in an area with deer or other wildlife crossing the road. Hitting a large animal like a deer may cause extensive damage to your vehicle.

If this unfortunate event happens, you will be relieved if you have comprehensive insurance coverage. You can get affordable instant auto insurance quotes by shopping online.