What to Do, What to Expect, and How to Get Your Car Fixed Right
A deer collision happens when a deer suddenly darts out of the woods onto the road - often in the fall and early winter - leaving the driver with no time to react. One second, the road is clear, and the next - Impact.
The aftermath can be severe. More than 1 million deer-vehicle collisions occur every year, resulting in over $1 billion in damage. Beyond the financial risk lies the serious safety risk of deer collision.
So, how do you handle damages and navigate insurance claims without surprises?
This guide provides a practical solution - from damage expectations to repair options and insurance steps to keep you covered.
Steps to Take After the Collision
A deer collision is not just a sudden phenomenon; it can take you completely off guard, making you make terrible decisions.
1
Safety First
Pull over to a safe spot. Turn on the hazard lights and check for injuries - call emergency medical attention immediately if needed.
2
Document Everything
Document vehicle and scene damage, and take photos (preferably). If the deer is still lying on the road, don't touch it, as it's dangerous - only notify the authorities.
3
Report Immediately
Report the incident to your insurance company immediately or within 24 hours to be on the safe side. This helps you understand whether your insurance applies in such a scenario.
Typical Damages After a Deer Collision (What to Expect)
Front-End Damage
Hood dents, fender damage, grille breaks, and headlight damage are the most common impacts from deer collisions.
Windshield & Roof Damage
Deer often roll onto the windshield, cracking and shattering the glass. Roof damage can also occur from the impact.
Internal Component Damages
Radiator, AC condenser, cooling fans, and sensors behind the bumper often suffer hidden damage that's not immediately visible.
Hidden Structural Damages
Crumple zones, core support, and frame alignment issues may not be apparent until a thorough inspection is conducted.
Repair Options After a Deer Collision
Understanding your repair options after a car collision will help you make informed decisions.
Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)
This option is cheap if the paint on your car isn't cracked and has only a small dent.
Best for: Minor dents without paint damage
Traditional Bodywork
This option is much more expensive than PDR, and it's suitable in situations where the deer damage cracks the car paint and causes deep dents, sharp creases, and paint damage.
The process is basically sanding, filling, and repainting.
Part Replacement
This is a highly recommended repair option if the collision damage on the part is irreparable. Part replacement has an initial high cost value, but it is worth it.
- Bumpers
- Headlights
- Fenders
- Hoods
- Grilles
- Cooling components
Structural Repair
Was any frame affected in the course of the collision? Provided the answer is yes, structural repair is non-negotiable.
The frame can be straightened, aligned, or replaced depending on the severity of damage.
ADAS Recalibration
Modern cars use advanced systems, which count in situations of a deer collision.
The advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) components include lane assist, sensors, cameras, LiDAR, etc.
If the ADAS is compromised, it will require a thorough calibration to restore the safety systems.
Note: It's important that you choose the right shop with the right equipment required for excellent structural damage repair.
How to Handle Insurance Claims Smoothly
If you don't understand how to smoothly claim your insurance, the deer collision experience will get horribly worse.
Comprehensive Insurance Covers Deer Collisions
If your insurance is collision insurance, you need to understand that it does not cover deer collisions. Only comprehensive insurance does, according to the insurance policy.
Filing the Claim
Contact your insurer as soon as possible, preferably within the recommended deadline, to avoid forfeiture or unnecessary hitches. Ensure you provide photos that capture the details of the collision while filing your claim.
Get a Claim Number
Get a claim number to track if your claim is pending, rejected, or accepted. This accelerates the overall process. If necessary, report the incident to the police.
Understanding Your Deductible
If you know your deductible, it helps you prepare for how much out-of-pocket money is expected from you - no surprises. Most comprehensive claims carry a $250 - 1,000 deductible.
Example: Your insurance company might pay $3,000 for the repair, and you $500 as a deductible. Determined by the type of insurance premium you purchase.
Choosing Your Repair Shop
You must understand that you're under no compulsion to use your insurer's preferred shop, especially if you don't trust the idea.
Benefits of Choosing Your Own Certified Body Shop:
Supplements are normal - hidden damages are often discovered after disassembling. This not only maximizes your vehicle's value but also minimizes surprise costs down the road.
How to Prevent Future Deer Collisions
Practical tips to help you avoid deer collisions:
Avoid Dawn/Dusk Driving
Deer move around more during these times. If you must drive, stay extra alert.
Slow Down in Deer Zones
Pay attention to deer crossing signs and reduce your speed in these areas.
Expect More Than One
If you see one deer, don't assume that's the only one there; expect more deer to follow.
Use High Beams
Always use a high beam when driving at dusk - it helps you easily spot deer moving ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will hitting a deer increase my insurance rates?
No, not exactly. It is considered a comprehensive claim, not an at-fault accident, so it typically does not raise premiums for a single comprehensive claim. You'd better confirm details with your insurer.
2. Is it safe to drive my car after a deer collision?
Not always. No matter what type of collision it is, minor or major, or hidden issues, such as radiator leaks, sensor damage, or misaligned structural components, driving becomes unsafe because of all these. Every small damage tends to turn into a major issue. A professional inspection is strongly recommended before driving long distances.
3. How long does deer collision repair usually take?
Repair timelines vary based on damage severity. Minor cosmetic repairs: 1–3 days. Part replacement & bodywork: 1–2 weeks. Structural repair & ADAS recalibration: 2–4+ weeks. Delays may occur due to parts availability or insurance approvals, especially during peak deer-collision seasons. Choosing a certified body shop helps keep timelines realistic and repairs done right the first time.
Get Expert Deer Collision Repair
Navigating a deer collision can be a little crazy. But not understanding how to navigate repairs and the insurance process can be salt on the sore bruises. However, the proper knowledge, as provided in this blog, can make the whole process seamless.
Need expert deer collision repair? We work with all insurance companies and have the specialized equipment to handle everything from minor dents to major structural damage.
Get Your Free Collision Estimate
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