Hitting a deer can be scary and quite shocking experience for both new and experienced drivers. We see a lot of our collision repair customers come in to purchase auto body parts for vehicles that have been damaged by deer. Though hitting a deer is scary, it is important to stay calm when it does happen. Your adrenaline will be pumping, and you are likely to be concerned about the vehicle and passengers. Read on to learn more about what to do if you hit a deer.

What to Do if You Hit a Deer

1.Don’t approach the deer.

Though you may want to check on the animal, it is best to stay away. Deer are quite powerful and have sharp hooves along with antlers that can injure you. Add in the fact that the deer is scared and injured; it is just better to stay away from it.

2.Move the car if you can.

If at all possible, the first thing you should do is move the car where it won’t be hit by another vehicle. Put the hazard lights on and if you cannot move the vehicle, be sure to move all of your passengers out of it and away from traffic.

3.Check yourself and passengers for injuries.

Take a look and see if any of your passengers or you have sustained injuries in the collision with the deer. Call emergency services if you think you or your passengers need medical help.

4.Call the police.

You’ll need to call the police to remove the deer and get it out of the road. They may need to call animal control if it is still alive. You should also let them know if you need an ambulance.

5.Inspect your vehicle for damage.

Always check your vehicle before getting back in it and driving it. Asses whether it is safe to drive and if not, call a tow truck and have it transported to the nearest garage for a professional inspection.

6.Report the incident to your insurance.

Call you insurance company to file a claim. Make sure you take plenty of photos of the damage.