Animal Collision Coverage in Chapel Hill NC & Raleigh NC

There’s a significant increase in deer activity between October and December, with many deer wandering into suburban neighborhoods and onto roadways. As a result, more deer-vehicle collisions occur during these months. Estimates say there are approximately two million annual insurance claims related to deer or other animal collisions. 

Deer can cause substantial damage when they collide with vehicles. Average costs for vehicle repairs can be upwards of $6,000 for some collisions, and other accidents may result in a total vehicle loss. 

What Does Comprehensive Mean in Auto Insurance? 
Comprehensive insurance is additional coverage that you can purchase to further protect your vehicle in the event of a deer-vehicle collision. In many states, it’s optional coverage. However, many lenders and leasing companies require drivers to carry it. Comprehensive coverage helps pay to repair or replace your vehicle if it’s damaged when you hit a deer. 

But if you carry your state’s minimum required insurance coverage, you’ll likely not be covered for a deer-vehicle collision. 

What Is the Difference Between Collision and Comprehensive? 
There are differences between how collision coverage and comprehensive coverage handle deer or animal collisions. Comprehensive coverage helps pay to repair or replace your vehicle if it’s damaged when you hit a deer because it’s considered a random, unpredictable incident. You must make physical contact with the deer for the accident to be covered under the comprehensive insurance on your auto policy. If you swerve to miss the deer and crash into oncoming traffic or hit a light pole, this would be considered a collision claim. 

Should I File a Claim for Hitting a Deer? 
In most cases, yes, you should file a claim for hitting a deer, especially if the damage to your car is severe. However, there are a few things you need to consider. For example, you are usually responsible for paying repair costs until you meet your deductible when you file an insurance claim after hitting a deer with your vehicle. The deductible is the amount you set when you purchased your auto insurance.  

Suppose your vehicle costs $2,000 in repairs, and your comprehensive coverage has a deductible of $500. In that case, you would pay the $500 toward your vehicle’s repairs and then your insurer would reimburse you for the remaining $1,500. 

However, if your vehicle is totaled after hitting a deer, your comprehensive insurance coverage limit determines the maximum amount your policy pays to replace your vehicle. 

Does Car Insurance Go Up After Hitting a Deer?  
When you file a comprehensive claim after hitting a deer, the claim goes into your insurance record. The frequency of claims you make can affect your future auto insurance rates. 

How We Can Help 
A collision with a deer can be a costly accident. All About insurance can get you the comprehensive coverage you need to protect yourself and your vehicle. Call us today at 919-321-2886 to get started.