Michigan drivers advised to review auto insurance policies to understand coverage for vehicle-deer collisions

LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is reminding motorists to review their auto insurance coverage now for the upcoming winter season.

The department wants them to understand what coverage may be available in the event of damage caused by a vehicle-deer collision.

They say while these types of crashes occur year round, the fall deer hunting season, coupled with shorter daylight periods, often increases the number of these crashes, which can cost thousands of dollars to repair.

According to the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, each year there are approximately 50,000 reported vehicle-deer crashes in Michigan.  About 80%of these crashes occur on two-lane roads between dusk and dawn, especially during the spring and during fall hunting season.

Insurance officials suggest discussing policy coverage with a licensed insurance agent or company.  In most cases, optional comprehensive coverage is suggested, which pays if a vehicle is stolen, or for repairs if it is damaged by a falling object, fire, flood, vandalism, or collision with an animal.

Here are a few tips on what to do after a deer collision:

• Pull off the road, turn on your emergency flashers, and be cautious of other traffic if you exit your vehicle.
• Report the crash to the nearest police agency and your insurance company or agent.
• Document the incident. If it’s safe to do so, take photographs of the roadway, your surroundings, damage to your vehicle, and any injuries you or your passengers sustained. If witnesses stop, take down their account of what occurred, and ask for their contact information.
• Do not approach the deer. Wounded animals can be dangerous, and an animal that appears to be dead may only be stunned.
• Don’t assume your vehicle is safe to drive. Double-check that your car is drivable after colliding with a deer. Look for leaking fluid, loose parts, tire damage, broken lights, a hood that won’t latch, and other safety hazards. If your vehicle seems unsafe in any way, call for a tow.

A recent study conducted by AAA reported that Michiganders pay an average of $130 million dollars each year to repair vehicle damage caused by collisions with deer.