AAA Club Alliance: Motorists Advised to Be on Lookout for Deer – Most Strikes Occur in November
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Not only do motorists need to be on the lookout for deer, but black bears as well, particularly in
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"A collision with a deer, or other animal, can put a serious dent in a vehicle, if not destroy it completely," said
Also, be alert when driving near wooded areas along local roadways. "Most animal-vehicle collisions occur on two-lane roads bordered by natural habitat," commented Averella.
- Scan the road and shoulders ahead of you. Looking ahead helps provide enough reaction time if an animal is spotted.
- Deer seldom travel alone, so when there is one, there are usually more in the area. Bears tend to travel solo except for a mother and her cubs.
- Use high beam headlights if there's no oncoming traffic. Wildlife may be spotted sooner when using high beams. This will give the driver time to slow down, move over or honk the horn to scare the animal away. High beams also help in spotting some animals' reflective eyes.
- Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk. Most animals, especially deer, tend to be more active early in the morning and at dusk. Deer can also be spotted at night as late as midnight.
- Slow down and use extra caution when traveling through areas with a high and active wildlife population. Be aware of increased wildlife movement in some regions during certain times of year such as hunting or mating season. Also, be observant in areas where roads divide agricultural fields from forestland.
- Don't swerve. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid hitting wildlife and hit another vehicle or lose control of their cars.
- If a collision is unavoidable, apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane
- Drivers should always wear a seat belt and remain awake, alert and sober.
- Do not try to move the animal. An injured animal might panic and seriously injure someone. Call police or animal control for assistance.
"The chances of hitting a deer and the odds of having a run-in with other wildlife are particularly high during certain times of the year. If you hit an animal, including deer, be sure to take photos and contact your insurance company as soon as possible," advised
Collision vs. Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage
Collision coverage - Covers damage to your car as a result of hitting or being hit by another vehicle, or object such as a light post. Collision coverage will not cover an auto-deer or other animal collision.
Comprehensive coverage - Covers damage to your vehicle resulting from incidents other than collision, such as theft or damage from flood, fire or animals. Only comprehensive coverage will reimburse drivers for loss due to contact with animals, such as deer.
If you hit an animal, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Take photos to document the accident.
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