Car accidents involving deer are common occurrences, particularly during deer season from October through December. According to a study by the Federal Highway Administration, there are an estimated one to two million animal collisions each year in the United States. Georgia is a “high risk” state for animal collisions, with drivers facing a one in 89 chance of hitting an animal while on the road.
If you have injuries from hitting a deer, you could potentially recover money for your medical bills, repairs to your vehicle, and more.
What to Do if I Was Injured After Hitting a Deer
If you were injured in a car accident involving a deer, there are some important steps to protect yourself in the aftermath.
After a collision with a deer, you should:
- Seek medical treatment – Even if you don’t think your injuries are serious, you should still see a doctor, as some injuries can take longer than others to present symptoms. Your doctor visit will also create a medical record that may be needed later as evidence for an insurance claim.
- File a claim with your insurance company – Getting the claim process started right away after an accident maximizes your chances of obtaining compensation.
- Collect evidence – You’ll need evidence to prove the losses you suffered as a result of the accident. This may include photographs or videos of the scene, your injuries, and damage to your vehicle. You will also need the official police report and your medical bills and records.
- Contact a Georgia personal injury attorney – An experienced Duluth car accident attorney can guide you through the complicated claims process. They can also help you understand your legal options if your insurance company denies or unfairly diminishes your claim.
Does Insurance Cover Hitting a Deer?
Not all insurance policies are the same, and you will need to find out if yours covers a collision with a deer. If you hit a deer, you could potentially file a claim under either your comprehensive coverage or underinsured motorist coverage. If another driver hit your car when trying to avoid hitting a deer, you file a claim against the other driver’s insurance.
Is it Illegal to Hit a Deer and Drive Off?
While it’s not illegal to hit a deer and drive away, it’s best to notify the police if the deer is injured. Leaving an injured deer on the road can be hazardous to other motorists. Once notified, local authorities will remove the deer from the road to ensure the safety of others.
However, if you swerve to avoid a deer and hit another car, it is illegal to drive away. In this situation, you need to stop and contact the police. If you fail to do so, the accident would be considered a “hit and run,” which can have severe legal consequences.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney in Duluth, GA Today
At Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC, our Duluth car accident lawyers have extensive experience handling a wide variety of cases, including collisions involving deer and other animals on the road. We’ll be ready to provide you with a free case evaluation when you call our office or reach out to us online.
