Deer season is almost here and drivers across Michigan are encouraged to check with their auto insurance provider to see what coverage they actually have in the event of a collision with a deer. The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) says that these types of crashes can occur during any season but happen more often during the fall when deer hunting season, cooler temperatures, and shorter daylight hours can cause deer to move frequently and sometimes unpredictably.
“The cost to repair damage from a vehicle-deer collision can be thousands of dollars so it is important to understand the coverage you have available before a crash occurs,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “Coverage for collision with things other than another vehicle, such as a deer, is an optional coverage that won’t be part of your standard policy unless you select it.”
In the event that you strike an animal on the road, it is advisable to pull over to the side of the road with emergency flashers on if possible, report the collision to the police and your insurance provider, do not approach the animal and do not assume your car is immediately safe to drive.
