Deer strikes on highways are causing thousands of dollars in damages to cars and posing risks to human life. The average weight of a deer can cause severe damage to vehicles, including shattered windshields and damaged engines. Repair costs for deer strikes can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. To prevent deer strikes, drivers should be aware of deer crossing areas, use high beams at night, stay alert during peak activity times, and not swerve to avoid a deer. While deer whistles may help deter deer, their effectiveness is debatable. Most insurance policies cover deer strikes.
Deer Strikes Cause Thousands in Damages to Cars on Highways
Introduction
Deer strikes have become a major concern for both drivers and insurance companies across the country. These unfortunate collisions between vehicles and deer not only pose significant risks to human life but also result in extensive damage to cars traveling on highways. In this article, we will explore the impact of deer strikes and the measures that can be taken to prevent them.
The Impact of Deer Strikes
Deer strikes on highways are an all-too-common occurrence, especially in areas with high deer populations. The average weight of a deer can range between 125 to 300 pounds, which means a collision between a car and a deer can cause severe damage to the vehicle. The force of impact can result in shattered windshields, dented hoods, damaged bumpers, and even engine problems.
According to statistics provided by insurance companies, the cost of repairs following a deer strike can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the extent of the damage. This includes not only the expenses for repairing physical damages but also the costs of towing the vehicle and providing alternative transportation during the repair process.
Prevention Measures
While it may be difficult to completely eliminate the risk of deer strikes, there are certain measures drivers can take to reduce the likelihood of such accidents:
- Be aware of deer crossing areas: Pay attention to signs indicating deer crossings and reduce speed in those areas.
- Use high beams at night: When driving through rural or wooded areas, use high beams to improve visibility and spot deer from a distance.
- Stay alert during peak activity times: Deer are most active during dawn and dusk, which makes these times particularly risky for collisions. Stay vigilant and be prepared to react if a deer suddenly crosses your path.
- Don’t swerve to avoid a deer: Swerving increases the chances of losing control of your vehicle and potentially causing more damage. Instead, apply brakes firmly and prepare for impact.
- Install deer deterrents: There are devices such as deer whistles that can be attached to your vehicle to emit high-frequency sounds that might deter deer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are deer strikes covered by insurance?
A: In most cases, deer strikes are covered by comprehensive auto insurance policies. However, it is always recommended to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage.
Q: What should I do after a deer strike?
A: If you’re involved in a deer strike, follow these steps:
- Safely move your vehicle to the side of the road, if possible.
- Call the police and inform them about the incident.
- Take pictures of the damages for insurance purposes.
- Contact your insurance provider and file a claim.
Q: Can I prevent deer strikes by using deer whistles?
A: While deer whistles are designed to deter deer by emitting high-frequency sounds, their effectiveness is still debatable. It’s important to remain cautious and rely on safe driving practices to minimize the risk of deer strikes.
Q: Are deer strikes more common in rural areas?
A: Yes, deer strikes are more prevalent in rural and wooded areas due to the higher presence of deer populations. However, they can happen on any road, including highways passing through rural regions.
Q: Are there any legal consequences for hitting a deer?
A: Generally, there are no legal consequences for hitting a deer, as it is considered an unavoidable accident. However, it is advisable to report the incident to the police and inform your insurance provider to initiate the claims process.
Conclusion
Deer strikes on highways pose significant risks to both human life and property. The damages caused by these collisions result in substantial expenses for car owners and insurance companies alike. By staying vigilant, following preventative measures, and practicing safe driving techniques, drivers can minimize the risk of deer strikes and protect themselves and their vehicles from costly damage.
