Hitting a Deer with Your Car – What You Need to Know

As the Michigan deer population increases, so does the risk of a deer-related car accident. While deer are a pleasant sight in their natural habitat, they become extremely dangerous when they venture onto a road or highway. And, because they move so quickly, many drivers don’t know what to do when a deer suddenly appears in their path. Here’s a motorists’ guide to deer car accidents and what you can do to stay safe. 

What To Do if You Hit a Deer 

The following steps are considered best practices if you accidentally hit a deer with your car or truck:

1. Call for an ambulance if you or any of your passengers are hurt 
2. Call the police even if no one is hurt
3. A wounded deer hit by a car can be dangerous so don’t approach the deer or try to move it 
4. Pull to the side of the road or shoulder and turn your hazard lights on while you wait for the police
5. If possible, document the incident by taking photos of the road and surrounding area, the deer and your vehicle 
6. If anyone is hurt, take photos and/or notes describing the injuries
7. Ask witnesses to describe what they saw and get their contact information

Facts About Deer-Related Car Accidents in Michigan During 2019 

• There were 55,531 deer-related crashes, an increase of 2,067 from 2018
• 12 people died, 8 of which were motorcyclists 
• Another 1,265 people were injured as a result of these deer-related car accidents
• 54,254 of these crashes involved vehicle damage 
• 33,036 of these crashes occurred on local streets while the rest took place on interstate highways and state and US routes. 
• The highest number of deer-related accidents (13,702) occurred between 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• Half of the deer-related fatalities (6) also occurred during the above time period
• 43.1% of all deer-related crashes occurred in the months of October (8,035), November (9,885) and December (6,035)

How To Avoid Hitting a Deer

Here are some tips to help you avoid hitting a deer with your car:

• Make sure you are alert and sober before getting behind the wheel
• Be extra vigilant in the spring and fall when deer are more plentiful 
• Drive cautiously in areas where deer crossing signs are posted 
• Slow down if you see one deer crossing the road because several others may be close behind  
• Be especially alert for deer during dawn and dusk hours when deer are more apt to travel
• Don’t flash high-beam headlights or honk your horn to deter deer

Facts About Deer That Might Help You Avoid A Future Deer Crash Incident

• Deer usually travel in groups. If you see one, there is a good chance others are nearby.
• Deer are easily startled. Unexpected sights and sounds such as headlights and car horns can cause them to move quickly and unpredictably. 
• Deer travel single file. If one crosses the road, others will probably follow.
• Deer are most active during daybreak and sunset.

What if I can’t avoid a deer accident?

While swerving may be your first instinct, doing so can be dangerous. The most serious crashes occur when motorists swerve to avoid a deer. This can result in the driver hitting another car or a fixed object such as a tree. Swerving could also cause a vehicle to roll over. 

Here are some steps to take if a crash seems unavoidable:

• Don’t swerve
• Apply the brakes firmly
• Hold the steering wheel steady
• Stay in your lane
• Bring your vehicle to a controlled stop

Michigan No-Fault Insurance And Deer Car Accident Coverage

No-Fault insurance coverage varies according to the type of accident and the provisions of your No-Fault policy. Here is some basic information on coverage of medical bills and repair costs. To learn more about your specific situation, contact your insurance agent. And, if you are injured, contact us to make sure you receive the benefits and compensation you are entitled to.

Medical Expenses for Car Accidents Involving Deer

If you are injured, your medical expenses will be paid in accordance with the level of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) medical coverage you have chosen. If you have unlimited medical benefits, your policy will cover the cost of all reasonable and necessary medical services related to the accident. This coverage includes rehabilitative therapy, attendant care and transportation to and from medical appointments.

In addition, PIP benefits include a portion of lost wages and replacement services for up to three years. These benefits are currently available regardless of your level of PIP medical coverage, but could change in the future. 

If your passengers are injured, their medical bills will be covered according to the provisions of their own No-Fault policies or other health care insurance. Uninsured passengers may seek reimbursement from the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan (MACP). 

Vehicle Repair Coverage for Deer Accidents

Under Michigan No-Fault law, vehicle owners are not required to carry collision insurance. Therefore, if your vehicle was damaged, coverage for repair costs depends on your insurance policy.   

Motorists who do not have collision coverage will be responsible for the cost of repairing their vehicle.

Repair costs for vehicles covered by collision insurance will be covered according to the terms of the motorist’s No-Fault policy

What if another vehicle was involved in the deer accident?

If you or your passengers are injured, the above rules for No-Fault medical coverage apply regardless of how many cars are involved. However, if you are injured and another driver is at fault, you may be eligible for additional compensation. 

By filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, you could recover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. In addition, you may be reimbursed for medical expenses that exceed your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) medical benefits. Furthermore, you may seek compensation for the portion of your lost wages and/or replacement services not covered by your PIP benefits. 

Therefore, if you have a deer accident that involves another vehicle besides your own, call us right away. Our team of experienced car accident lawyers know what it takes to win your case, and we won’t quit until you receive the compensation you deserve. 

Follow this link if you’d like to learn more about Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance Laws.

Will I get a ticket for hitting a deer with my car?

Whether a driver receives a ticket for hitting a deer depends on the individual circumstance. If you were following the posted speed limit and were unable to stop in time to avoid the deer, you probably will not get a ticket. 

However, if you were speeding or violating another traffic law when you hit the deer, you may be ticketed in addition to being subject to other penalties. Moreover, if you were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you could be charged with a misdemeanor.

Michigan car accident laws are complicated, but finding the right car accident lawyer is simple. 

Click the form below to fill out a quick form or Call 1-800-CALL-SAM today for a free, remote no-obligation consultation from the safety of your home.