Does my car insurance cover damage caused by a deer or other wildlife?

When driving, especially at night, there’s always a risk of hitting a wild animal like a deer. If this happens to you, you may need to know how to file a car insurance claim and understand the types of car insurance coverage to see what insurance you can find.

For example, does car insurance cover damage caused by a deer or other wildlife? We’ve done the research for you and provided the answers below. Another situation that can leave you questioning your coverage, “Does my car insurance cover damage caused by a hit-and-run driver if I cannot identify them?”

Will my car insurance cover damage caused by a deer or other wildlife?

If you run into a deer or other wildlife, insurance companies consider this to be circumstances beyond your control.

Therefore, you need to work with one of the best comprehensive coverage car insurance companies if you want to make a claim. Some people think that collision coverage would pay for this type of accident, but most insurance companies will only cover it under a comprehensive policy.

What if I swerve to avoid a deer or other wildlife?

You may have tried to avoid the animal but hit another vehicle during the process. Even though you may think that the deer may have started the process, this is not the case, as other types of car insurance coverage are in play.

The company will process this claim under “collision” insurance instead. If you contact the animal and hit another vehicle in the same incident, you must talk with your insurance company to see how they want to proceed.

Can I make a claim against the state for failing to control the animal?

Deer and other wildlife are free-roaming animals and not under the control of any entity. In particular, deer are prolific, and Texas estimates that there are between 3 and 4 million white-tailed deer in that state alone.

As deer can roam over large areas, they can often threaten motorists, but it is impossible to claim against the state or federal government for any damage that a deer may cause should you encounter them.

Should I report hitting a deer to my car insurance company?

You may not need to file a police report to pursue a comprehensive claim for hitting a deer. However, most local authorities recommend that you should report the incident. This is because the animal may still be alive and injured and could cause a threat to other motorists or third parties.

In some circumstances, a state may require you to file a police report if you sustain property damage above a certain amount or if any person suffers a serious injury.

For example, New York state requires you to file a crash (accident) report if damage to your property exceeds more than $1000, likely in the event of an impact with a deer.

Case Studies: Understanding Car Insurance Coverage for Wildlife-Related Damages

Case Study 1: The Comprehensive Coverage Conundrum

John’s car insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage, which typically covers damages caused by events other than collisions with another vehicle, such as accidents involving wildlife, vandalism, or natural disasters.

John’s insurance company determines that the damage caused by the deer is covered under his comprehensive insurance policy. After paying his deductible, the insurance company arranges for the repairs to be made at an authorized auto repair shop.

John’s car insurance coverage includes comprehensive coverage, which covers damage caused by wildlife. By promptly filing a claim and providing all the necessary documentation, John successfully received compensation for the repairs to his vehicle.

Case Study 2: Limited Coverage and Supplementary Policies

Sarah’s car insurance policy only includes basic liability coverage, which covers damages she may cause to others, but not her own vehicle. However, Sarah had previously purchased a supplementary policy known as “wildlife coverage” that specifically covers damages caused by wildlife incidents.

Sarah’s insurance company reviews her policy and confirms that her basic liability coverage does not cover damage to her own vehicle. However, they acknowledge her supplementary wildlife coverage policy and approve the claim for repairs caused by the deer collision. Sarah pays the deductible associated with the supplementary policy, and the insurer arranges for the necessary repairs.

Sarah’s car insurance policy does not cover damage caused by wildlife under her basic liability coverage. However, her supplementary wildlife coverage policy fills this gap, allowing her to receive compensation for the repairs. It highlights the importance of understanding the specific coverage details and considering additional policies to address specific risks.

Case Study 3: Policy Exclusions and Geographic Limitations

Michael’s comprehensive car insurance policy covers damages caused by wildlife. However, it’s important to note that certain policies may have exclusions or limitations regarding coverage for incidents that occur outside the policyholder’s home state.

Michael’s insurance company reviews his policy and informs him that his comprehensive coverage includes protection against wildlife damage. However, his policy contains a geographic limitation stating that coverage for wildlife incidents is limited to his home state. Unfortunately, Michael’s claim is denied due to this exclusion, and he is responsible for the repair costs.

Michael’s car insurance policy provides coverage for wildlife incidents, but it contains a limitation that restricts coverage to his home state. It emphasizes the importance of thoroughly reviewing policy terms and conditions, including any geographic limitations or exclusions, to avoid surprises when filing a claim for wildlife-related damages that occur outside the specified coverage area.

Car Insurance Coverage for Damage Caused by a Deer or Other Wildlife: The Bottom Line

If you have comprehensive car insurance, you can file a claim with your insurance company to cover damage caused by a deer or other wildlife. Collision insurance will not cover you in this situation, although it may if you swerve to avoid a deer and crash into another vehicle.

You cannot claim against the state or other authority when you run into a wild animal on the road.