AAA: Tips To Avoid Deer Collisions And Costly Repairs
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (November 13, 2024) — During the period when deer mating season is active, AAA – The Auto Club Group is advising drivers to exercise caution and remain highly observant while traveling on the road in order to prevent collisions. The months between mid-October and December are known to be the most high-risk period for vehicle accidents involving animals.
“Mating season is the time of the year when deer are extremely active and the chances of them darting into the roadway are much higher,” said Tiffany Wright, spokesperson, AAA – The Auto Club Group in the Carolinas. “We urge drivers to stay alert, especially in animal-prone areas because a collision with a deer can be just as destructive as a collision with another vehicle.”
Deer Mating Season
In 2023, NCDOT reported a rise of over 1,700 collisions between animals and vehicles, resulting in a total of 21,835 crashes, with an estimated 90% involving deer. The majority of these incidents occurred during the months of October to December during deer mating season. According to the latest data from SCDPS, South Carolina recorded 4,609 deer-related collisions in 2022.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reported that approximately 2,000 individuals lost their lives in collisions involving animals between 2013 and 2023. Mating season accidents happen ongoing.
“Colliding with a deer is not only dangerous, but also increasingly expensive even in a minor crash,” added Wright. “New technology, like cameras and windshield sensors drive up the cost of repairs, which makes it more imperative to double-check your insurance coverage.”
An approximate amount of $4,300 is the average estimated claim for car accidents involving deer in the Carolinas. To prevent paying from your own pocket during mating season, AAA suggests acquiring an auto insurance policy that includes comprehensive coverage. This type of coverage protects against collisions with deer and other animals.
AAA encourages motorists to keep these tips in mind when on the road during mating season:
- Most deer are active between 5:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. so pay extra attention during this time if you’re out on the road.
- If you see a deer, slow down and watch out for other deer that may follow.
- While slowing down, honk your horn to scare the animal.
- Brake firmly and do not swerve.
In the event of a collision, AAA says:
- If possible, immediately move the vehicle to a safe location, out of the roadway. Your safety and the safety of your passengers is most important.
- Once you are in a safe location and no longer driving, call the police.
- Turn the vehicle’s hazard lights on.
- Avoid making contact with the deer/animal. A frightened or wounded animal can hurt you or further injure itself.
- Contact your insurance company as quickly as possible to report any damage to your vehicle.
- Take photos of the damage if you can do so safely and without entering the roadway.
- To report an injured deer in North Carolina, call the NCDNR’s Wildlife Enforcement Division at (800) 662-7137. To report an injured deer in South Carolina, call the SCDNR office at (803) 734-3886 to locate a rehabilitator near you.
- When in North Carolina, deer-related crashes should be reported to the NC Department of Transportation. When in South Carolina, deer-related crashes should be reported to the SC Department of Transportation.
About AAA – The Auto Club Group
The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 64 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
Local News Via - MyrtleBeachSC.com
