Does Insurance Pay If You Hit a Deer With Your Car in Illinois?

Understanding Deer Collisions and Car Insurance in Illinois

Whether insurance will pay for damage from hitting a deer depends mainly on the type of auto insurance coverage you have. In general, damage from hitting a deer falls under comprehensive coverage rather than collision coverage. Here’s what each type of coverage entails:

• Comprehensive Coverage: This type of coverage typically covers damage from events outside your control, like natural disasters, theft, vandalism, and animal collisions. Comprehensive coverage will likely cover the repair costs minus any deductible if you hit a deer.
• Collision Coverage: This coverage usually applies to accidents where you collide with another vehicle or object. It generally does not cover animal collisions, so if you don’t have comprehensive coverage, your insurance likely won’t cover damage from hitting a deer.

What if You Only Have Liability Insurance?

Liability insurance is the minimum required coverage in Illinois and only covers damage you cause to others. Unfortunately, if you only carry liability insurance, your insurance won’t pay for repairs if you hit a deer.

Steps to Take After a Deer Collision

If you hit a deer, follow these steps to ensure safety and make the insurance process as smooth as possible:

1. Move to a Safe Location: Pull over to the side of the road if possible. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
2. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation: Avoid approaching the deer, as an injured animal can be unpredictable. Ensure everyone in your car is safe, and check for any injuries.
3. Call the Authorities: In Illinois, it’s a good idea to report the accident to local law enforcement, mainly if there is substantial damage or the deer obstructs traffic.
4. Document the Damage: Take photos of the scene, your car, and any visible damage. This documentation will be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance provider about the accident immediately. They can help you begin the claims process and may guide you to specific repair shops.

What to Expect During the Claims Process

When you file a claim for hitting a deer, your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine repair costs. If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurer will cover repairs up to your policy’s limits after deducting any applicable deductible.

Will a Deer Collision Raise Your Insurance Premium?

Many insurance providers view hitting a deer as a “no-fault” accident, meaning it’s typically an unavoidable event outside the driver’s control. Because of this, your premiums may not increase as they might after an at-fault accident. However, each insurer has different policies, so it’s worth clarifying this with your provider.

Preventing Deer Collisions

While deer accidents are often unpredictable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Be Extra Cautious During Peak Deer Season: Deer are most active during dusk and dawn in the fall months. Exercise extra caution during these times, especially in rural or wooded areas.
• Use High Beams When Safe: High beams can help spot deer more easily. Be mindful of oncoming traffic, and slow down if you see a deer near the road.
• Don’t Swerve: If a collision seems unavoidable, try not to swerve. Swerving can cause you to lose control of your vehicle or veer into other traffic, which can result in more serious damage or injury.

Need Help After an Accident? Contact Schierer & Ritchie, LLC

Deer collisions can be financially and emotionally taxing, but understanding your insurance coverage can make the process less overwhelming. If you’ve been involved in a serious accident or have questions about insurance claims, the Schierer & Ritchie, LLC team is here to help. Our experienced accident attorneys can assist you with insurance claims, protect your rights, and guide you through any legal challenges.

If you have questions about your coverage or need assistance after a car accident, contact Schierer & Ritchie, LLC. We’re committed to helping Illinois drivers navigate the legal and insurance complexities that can follow unexpected road incidents.