I Just Hit a Deer, What Do I Do?

I Just Hit a Deer, What Do I Do? | Bob Moore Collision Center
Most Oklahomans have had a close encounter with a deer on a dark road. Collisions with wildlife are often traumatizing, often expensive, and always dangerous. Deer collisions cause about 200 deaths every year, and generate about $3.6 billion dollars in vehicle damage. On average, a collision with a deer will run you about $2,800 for repairs, and if someone is injured, it can cost north of $10,000. Proper insurance coverage is the best way to mitigate these risks, with full coverage enabling you to file a property damage claim. If you hit a deer on a rural Oklahoma road this year, here are the first steps you should take immediately after a collision.
What Do I Do if I Hit a Deer?
- Ensure everyone in the vehicle is okay
- Get off the road and out of harm's way
- Call emergency services if needed
- Take pictures of the collision
- If needed, call a towing company to get your vehicle to a repair shop
- Once you and your car are safe and secure, contact your insurance provider to file a claim
After you file a claim, your insurance provider will reach out to you and ask you to take your vehicle to an auto body repair shop for a repair estimate. They may have recommended partners, but you're free to take your vehicle to any collision center you choose. From here, your level of coverage and your insurance provider will determine how much you'll receive for repairs. In some instances with heavy damage, the cost to repair your car may be greater than the value of the car, in which case, your insurance company will write it off as a loss, and provide you with a check for the full value of your vehicle.
If all that sounds a little daunting, we get it. At Bob Moore Collision Center, we're here to help you with your auto repairs and your relationship with your insurance company. After your collision, one of our tow trucks can bring your vehicle in for a free auto repair estimate. We'll share our findings with you and your insurance provider, taking over the relationship so you don't have to stress too much about repairs. We'll work directly with them through the billing and claims process while you use one of our rentals to get back to your normal life. If you have questions about our collision repair services in OKC, contact Bob Moore Collision Center.
Tips for Avoiding Deer on the Road
Awareness is key to avoiding a costly collision. Use the tips below to better avoid deer as you drive:
- Deer are most active around dusk and dawn. Use extra caution when driving during these hours
- Look out for deer crossing signs and slow down when you see them
- October through January is mating season, and that's when deer are most active.
- Deer are rarely alone. If you see one, more are likely in the area
- If you see a deer too late, don't swerve out of the way recklessly. It's safer to hit a deer head on than to lose control of your vehicle.
No matter how vigilant you are, driving in rural Oklahoma means you run the risk of hitting a deer. If you need assistance after a collision, visit Bob Moore Collision Center.
Schedule Auto Collision Repair Damage in OKC
Our OKC Collision Center is certified to work on a wide range of vehicles, from foreign luxury brands to Ford trucks. No matter the size or scope of your damage, we're here to help. Visit Bob Moore Collision Center for a free auto repair estimate today.