What to Do After You Hit a Deer

It’s loud, it’s sudden, and your heart is racing. When you hit a deer, the best thing you can do is slow the moment down and work a simple plan. Here’s a calm, practical checklist you can follow.

1) Get safe first

If the vehicle moves, guide it out of the travel lane and turn on your hazards. Check everyone in the car. If there are injuries, call 911. Don’t stand in active lanes to inspect damage—move to a safe spot.

2) Don’t move the deer

If the deer is still in the roadway, call police and let them handle it. Wild animals can be unpredictable, and you don’t want to create a secondary hazard for other drivers.

3) Document the scene

in real time Take photos before vehicles are moved, if it’s safe to do so. You want two kinds of pictures: • Close-ups of damage (multiple angles, headlights, grille, hood, fenders, windshield). • Wide shots of the roadway, shoulder, any skid marks or debris, traffic signs, and lighting conditions. If there are witnesses, ask for names and contact information. Jot down the time, location, and direction of travel while it’s fresh.

1. Don’t assume the car is fine because it still drives

Modern vehicles tuck sensors, cameras, active safety components, and cooling parts behind the bumper and grille. A strike that looks like cosmetic damage can hide more extensive repairs. If you see fluid leaking, warning lights, unusual noises, tire rub, or anything that feels off, don’t drive it. Ask about towing.

1. Call your insurer or your agent and start the claim

Clear documentation helps your claim start smoothly. Share your photos and details so the adjuster and repair facility understand what happened right away. Ask about next steps, repair options, and whether you should bring the car in or arrange a tow.

1. Keep the paperwork simple

Save your photos, the police report number (if any), tow receipts, and repair estimates in one place. If you speak with anyone about the claim, note names, dates, and what was discussed.

What coverage might apply? In many policies, striking an animal is generally treated as a comprehensive claim. If you swerved to avoid the deer and hit a guardrail or another vehicle, that’s usually collision. Your policy language controls, and deductibles may differ between the two.

Will this raise my rate? There isn’t one universal answer. Company rules, your claim history, and other factors can all influence pricing. Focus first on safety, accurate documentation, and understanding your deductible. Then talk with your agent about next steps.

A calmer path forward Bad nights happen. Good information and a clear plan help you get through them. Start safe, document thoroughly, and call for guidance before you make assumptions.