Does Car Insurance Cover Hitting a Deer?
Key Takeaways
Comprehensive coverage is what pays for deer hits
If your policy includes comprehensive insurance, damage from colliding with a deer (or other wildlife) is typically covered. That coverage is meant for non–vehicle-vs-vehicle events, similar to theft, vandalism, or storm damage.
Liability and collision alone won’t cover a deer strike
Liability only pays for harm you cause to others, and collision applies when you hit another car or object—not an animal. Without comprehensive, repair costs after hitting a deer usually come out of your pocket.
After a collision, focus on safety, then document and claim
Pull over safely, get help if anyone is hurt or the road is blocked, avoid approaching an injured deer, take photos, file a police report if your state requires it, and contact your insurer to start a claim. GEICO notes that deer hits are generally treated as not-at-fault comprehensive claims, so filing doesn’t automatically mean a rate increase like an at-fault accident might.
Picture this: you’re driving home late at night, headlights cutting through the dark, when suddenly a deer darts across the road. It happens in an instant, and before you can react, you feel the impact. It’s a scenario many drivers face each year, and it raises an important question about what comes next.
For many, the first thought after making sure everyone is safe is, “Does car insurance cover hitting a deer?” In this guide, we’ll walk through what drivers need to know about car insurance and animal-related accidents so you can feel more confident the next time you hit the road.
When Does Car Insurance Cover Hitting a Deer?
Car insurance covers hitting a deer (and other wildlife) if you have comprehensive coverage on your policy. This type of protection is designed for incidents that aren’t caused by a collision with another vehicle. Comprehensive coverage also steps in for situations like theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, and damage from falling objects.
Animal collisions, including deer accidents, are specifically listed under GEICO’s comprehensive coverage. That means if you add this option to your policy, you’ll be protected from the costly repairs that can come with hitting a deer or other wildlife on the road. It’s an added layer of security that helps drivers handle the unexpected.
When Does Car Insurance Not Cover Hitting a Deer?
Car insurance does not cover hitting a deer if you only carry liability or collision coverage. Liability insurance pays for injuries or property damage you cause to others, but it won’t help with repairs to your own vehicle. Collision coverage is designed for accidents involving another car or object, not an animal. Without comprehensive coverage, the costs of repairing your car after a deer accident would fall entirely on you.
What To Do After Hitting a Deer
Deer collisions often happen when you least expect them, and they can be unsettling for any driver. It’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in rural or wooded areas where deer are known to roam. Even with extra caution, though, accidents can still occur. Knowing what to do in the moments after can help keep you safe and make the process of handling the incident smoother. If you hit a deer:
- Put safety first: Pull over to a safe spot and turn on your hazard lights.
- Call for help if needed: Get medical assistance if anyone is injured, and notify the authorities if the road is blocked or there’s significant damage.
- Keep your distance: Do not approach an injured animal, as it may be unpredictable or dangerous.
- Document the scene: Take photos of your vehicle, the roadway, and any visible damage.
- File a report if required: Some states require a police report for animal-related collisions.
- Reach out to your insurer: Contact GEICO to begin the claims process and get guidance on the next steps.
Why Choose GEICO for Comprehensive Coverage?
Comprehensive coverage through GEICO offers an affordable way to protect your vehicle from the unexpected, including collisions with deer. You’ll also have access to helpful support whenever you need to file a claim. The process is simple and convenient—claims can be started online or through the GEICO Mobile app in just a few steps.
Making sure you’re protected doesn’t have to be complicated. Get a free car insurance quote today and see how GEICO can give you the peace of mind that comes with reliable coverage.
