In 2019 there were 19,375 deer-related crashes on Ohio’s roadways. Of those crashes, four resulted in fatal injuries and 966 people were injured – 46% of those crashes occurred in October, November, and December. Some of the top counties for deer-related crashes include Stark, Richland, Lorain, Trumbull, and Hancock counties according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
Deer become more active during the fall breeding season which occurs from late October through November. Males go after females, and often come across females that are not willing to breed. Which then can result in them getting chased and darting into the roadway.
You can’t always prevent a collision with a deer; however, there are some things you can do to help prevent a serious crash. It is advisable to drive undistracted, keep your focus on the roadway, and use your seat belt while driving. If you see a deer, slow down – remember deer stay in herds. Don’t swerve, swerving can cause an accident with another driver, or another object. Scan the road ahead, this helps provide enough reaction time if you see an animal around the roadway. Use high beam headlights if there is no oncoming traffic. This helps spot deer or other wildlife quicker and give you time to slow down, move over or honk to scare the animal away. Deer tend to be more active in the early morning and at dusk.
What to do if you hit a deer?
- Move to a safe place (if your vehicle is operable)
- Turn on your hazard lights
- Report the crash
- Avoid approaching the deer – A scared or wounded animal can be dangerous
- Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible to report damages to vehicle
The cost of repairing vehicles is becoming costly. Recent studies estimate the average insurance claim for a deer to vehicle collision in Ohio is more than $4,000. Vehicle sensors found on newer vehicles continue to increase repair costs. Another study found that those new safety systems can double repair bills for minor collisions. Without proper coverage, you could be left footing the bill. That is why it is important to make sure you’re covered properly before a crash occurs. Contact our office today! We would love to help you protect what is most important to you.