Every year, thousands of deer-vehicle collisions happen across Tennessee, especially during the fall. These crashes can cause serious injuries and expensive vehicle damage. Deer are beautiful to see when in the Smokies or in a national park, but they’re not really something you want to see on the road.
At Hotz & Associates, P.C., our Knoxville car accident lawyers understand the dangers that local drivers face, particularly when wildlife is involved. If your car hit a deer or you were injured in a deer-car accident, knowing what steps to take next can make all the difference.
Why deer are a danger year-round in Tennessee
Over 6,500 deer-related crashes were reported in Tennessee in 2020 alone, with half occurring from October through December, according to the Tennessee Department of Safety. Deer are most active during the autumn mating season, but collisions happen in spring and summer too.
Deer populations are especially active near wooded or rural areas, and many deer crossing signs mark these high-risk zones. Unfortunately, deer often run out in front of cars without warning, particularly at dawn and between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., when visibility is reduced and drivers are less alert.
Animal strike claims peak in November, with more than twice the average number of claims compared to other months. The average repair cost for a deer hit by a car in November is $4,600, and some cases cost far more, especially when newer vehicles with advanced safety features are involved.
Safe driving tips to avoid hitting a deer
While it’s impossible to eliminate the risk entirely, these safe driving tips can help you avoid hitting a deer and protect yourself from harm.
Stay alert and scan the side of the road
Always scan the side of the road for signs of movement or the reflective glow of a deer’s eyes. Use your high beams when driving at night, if there is no oncoming traffic, to improve visibility. Staying focused and limiting distractions gives you more time to react if a deer suddenly enters your path.
Slow down in high-risk areas
Reduce your speed in areas marked with deer crossing signs or where you’ve previously seen deer. If you notice one near the road, slow down immediately. Remember, where there’s one, there are usually more.
Blow your horn, but don’t swerve
If a deer is near the road, blow your horn in a long blast to try to scare it away. If a collision seems unavoidable, stay in your lane, brake firmly, and do not swerve to avoid the animal. Swerving can cause you to hit another vehicle or run off the road, which can lead to a more severe wreck.
Don’t rely on deer whistles
Some drivers use deer whistles, but there’s no scientific proof that they prevent deer from crossing the road. Deer behavior is unpredictable, even with these devices installed.
Always wear your seat belt
The best protection in any crash is your seat belt. A study by the IIHS found that many people killed in deer vehicle collisions were not buckled up. Wear your seat belt every time you drive.
What to do after a deer collision
If your car hits a deer, follow these steps to stay safe and protect your legal and insurance rights:
- Pull over safely and turn on your hazard lights.
- Call the police to report the wreck.
- Stay in your vehicle and don’t approach the animal. Injured deer can be dangerous.
- Take photos of the damage and the scene.
- Contact your insurance company once you’re home. Deer-related crashes are typically covered by comprehensive insurance, which also applies to theft or other non-collision damage.
Can you file a claim after a deer-related crash?
Most vehicle collisions that involve deer are handled through comprehensive insurance coverage, which typically pays for vehicle damage caused by wildlife. However, if another driver’s actions contributed to the wreck, like swerving into your lane, driving too fast for conditions, or failing to brake in time, you may have grounds to file a personal injury claim against that driver.
Deer-related crashes can become more complex when unsafe driving behaviors, like distracted driving or speeding, escalate a bad situation. If your injuries were caused or worsened by another motorist’s negligence, you shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden alone.
At Hotz & Associates, P.C., our experienced Knoxville car accident lawyers have helped thousands of injured clients seek fair compensation after wrecks of all types, including those involving wildlife and deer car accidents. We also know how to hold negligent drivers accountable, and we’re not afraid to take on insurance companies that pressure victims into accepting lowball settlements.
Contact Hotz & Associates after a deer-related crash
If a deer hits your car or you’ve been injured in a wreck caused by someone else’s unsafe driving, call Hotz & Associates at (865) 582-0042. You can also contact us online to schedule a consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Knoxville. Our team can help you seek fair compensation for medical bills, car repairs, and other expenses, so you can focus on recovery while we handle the legal process.