It's Deer-Car Collision Season
The Insurance Information Institute just issued a release reminding motorists to keep an eye or two out for deer this fall. October (is it really October already?) through December is deer season, during which there is a "dramatic increase in the movement of the deer population," according to the III. Deer and cars have never been a good combo, and in recent years cervids have presented an increasing danger to drivers (and vice versa). Here are the stats, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Information Institute (III):
A year with dear
1.5 million deer-vehicle collisions
150 occupant deaths
Tens of thousands of injuries
$1 billion in vehicle damage
$11,000 average cost per accident
Watch out, Midwesterners
According to a recent study done by State Farm, one of the largest auto insurers in the country, these states have the highest number of deer-car collisions:
1. Pennsylvania
2. Michigan
3. Illinois
4. Ohio
5. Georgia
6. Minnesota
7. Virginia
8. Indiana
9. Texas
10. Wisconsin
The bad news: The deer hazard is only going to get worse. Unless there is a comprehensive plan to reduce their numbers, the deer population will continue to grow. (Wildlife biologists have considered giving The Pill to suburban deer.) At the same time, their habitat will shrink further. You don't have to be a biologist to understand what that means.
The good news: Vigilant driving works. After a concentrated public awareness campaign, Pennsylvania-based Erie Insurance saw a 6 percent reduction in deer-related auto claims. Regular reminders of the hazards will keep drivers aware and safe.
Consider these tips (courtesy of the III):
Use high beams (will illuminate eyes of deer on roadside)
Wear your seat belt (yet another reason to do this)
Avoid distractions (dialing a number means you're not paying attention to deer)
Drive sober (for all the obvious reasons)
Be attentive at night and the early morning (maybe this one should be at the top of the list)
Brake firmly (i.e., not don't swerve when you see a deer)
Here are more things to consider/reconsider:
Deer whistles don't work.
Deer can be found on busy highways near urban areas.
If you see a deer, chances are good there are more around.
Deer fences aren't foolproof; don't let your guard down.
It took bears and mountain lions an entire century to kill as many people as deer do in one year.
Deer will always be a driving hazard, but with care you can minimize the risk. Drive safely this fall!
Comments
How does state farm treat a deer strike?
Posted by: Mic | October 31, 2006 03:53 PM
In general, a basic auto policy with comprehensive coverage will cover deer-related damage to your car.
(Comprehensive coverage pays for damage to your car that's not the result of a collision with another car, including deer accidents, riots, earthquakes, etc.)
In your case, Mic, if you've had a deer run-in and your damage exceeds your deductible, the best thing to do is contact your Start Farm agent.
Posted by: Jeb | November 1, 2006 08:57 AM