Fall means shorter days, more commuting in the dark, and more deer near the road. If you have hit a deer, the first few minutes and the next few days both matter. Here is a practical guide.
At the Scene
Get your vehicle to a safe spot if it is drivable, turn on your hazard lights, and call 911 if anyone is injured or the vehicle cannot be moved. Stay away from the animal, since an injured deer can be unpredictable. Take photos of the vehicle, the road, and your surroundings before anything is moved, and note the location and time.
Is It Safe to Drive?
Check for leaking fluids, warning lights, a hood that won't latch, broken lights, or tires that look out of position. If anything seems off, or the vehicle pulls, vibrates, or makes new noises, have it towed rather than driving it.
Don't Assume the Damage Is Minor
A deer strike can look like a cracked bumper and a dented hood while causing damage you can't see. Hidden problems can include frame or structural damage, suspension damage, alignment issues, and damage to sensors and safety systems such as cameras and radar used by driver-assist features. A professional inspection is the only way to know the full extent.
Should You File an Insurance Claim?
The right answer depends on your policy, your deductible, and the cost of repair. As a general example, if the repair is $3,000 and your deductible is $500, your insurer would typically cover the remaining $2,500, subject to your coverage. Whether deer damage is covered, and how a claim affects your rates, depends on your policy and your insurer, so check with your insurance company or agent. Getting a professional estimate first gives you the information you need to make that decision.
Why Repair Quality Matters
Modern vehicles rely on precise structure and calibrated sensors. Curry Collision Center is an I-CAR Gold Class shop and part of the GM Collision Repair Network, and we hold Honda certification as well. We also have Direct Repair Program relationships with select insurers, including State Farm, Progressive, and Auto-Owners, and we can help you through the claim process. You also have the right to choose your own repair shop. Read our guide, "Can I Choose My Own Repair Shop?"
Next Steps
Call Curry Collision Center at (812) 355-6563 or request an estimate online. We are at 845 Auto Mall Road, Bloomington, IN 47401, and we serve Bloomington, Ellettsville, Bedford, Martinsville, Spencer, and surrounding Monroe County communities.
This article is general information, not insurance or legal advice. Coverage varies by policy; contact your insurer with questions.