Wis. Says Drivers May Not Be Insured for Deer Hits

Auto accidents involving deer and cars, known as deer hits, are reportedly most common in the fall and winter. As a result, Wisconsin’s Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) is reminding drivers to be careful on the roads and to check their insurance policies for deer hit coverage.

“Many people don’t realize they are not insured for deer hits,” said Randy Blumer, Deputy Commissioner of Insurance. “Deer hit and other car-animal collisions are typically covered under the comprehensive coverage section of an auto policy. However, since comprehensive coverage is optional everyone might not be covered for deer hits.”

Most automobile insurance policies provide collision coverage for accidents involving two vehicles. Although available as an option in most policies, fewer policies provide comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive coverage provides for things beyond the scope of collision coverage such as hail, theft, falling objects, and deer hits. Drivers should reportedly check the Declarations Page of their policies to see if they have comprehensive coverage.

“It’s always a good idea to periodically review your insurance policies to see what you are and are not covered for. If you find an area in which you are not covered, and want coverage, your insurance agent will be able to assist you,” said Blumer.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, there may be more than 90,000 deer-vehicle crashes in Wisconsin per year.