Fall is here, and so is deer season. That means more deer on the road and more drivers dealing with damage. From October through December, deer move more than at any other time of year.
If you hit a deer, you need safe, proper deer collision repair to get back on the road. Here’s how to lower your risk, what to do after a crash, and how to get your car fixed the right way.
Why Deer Collision Repair Spikes in the Fall
Every fall, auto body shops see more deer damage than in any other season. There’s a simple reason for that. Deer are more active and less careful this time of year.
State Farm reports that the autumn months are still the most dangerous for animal crashes, and November is the peak. Deer are the top animal involved in these crashes.
These are the main reasons for the fall spike:
- Mating season. Bucks chase does and pay little attention to traffic.
- Hunting season. Hunters push deer out of the woods and onto roads.
- Shorter days. More people drive at dawn and dusk, when deer move most.
- Crop harvests. Deer lose cover and wander into new areas.
Knowing why deer season is risky helps you stay alert. A little awareness might mean you never need deer collision repair at all.
Deer Season Driving Tips to Avoid a Crash
You can’t control a deer, but you can control how you drive. These deer season driving tips can help you spot danger early and react safely.
- Slow down at dawn and dusk. These are the riskiest hours. Lower speeds give you more time to stop.
- Watch for deer crossing signs. They’re posted where crashes happen most.
- Use high beams when you can. Switch them on when no cars are coming. They help you see eyes shining near the road.
- Expect more than one. Deer travel in groups. If one crosses, others may follow.
- Brake firmly, but don’t swerve. Swerving can send you into a tree, a ditch, or another car. That crash is often worse than hitting the deer.
- Always buckle up. Seat belts protect you if a crash does happen.
What about deer whistles? Consumer Reports notes that there’s no strong proof they work. Your best tools are your eyes, your speed, and your brakes.
Keep Your Car Ready for Fall Driving Safety
Good fall driving safety starts before you leave the driveway. You can’t avoid what you can’t see. A few quick checks help you spot deer sooner and stop faster.
- Clean your headlights. Foggy or dirty lenses shorten how far you can see at night.
- Replace worn wipers. Fall rain and leaves can smear your windshield fast.
- Check your tire pressure. The right pressure helps you stop and steer when a deer darts out.
- Clear your windshield inside and out. A dirty windshield causes glare that makes it hard to see at dusk.
These steps take only minutes. They can help you avoid a crash and keep you out of the body shop.
What to Do If You Hit a Deer
Even careful drivers can hit a deer. If it happens to you, stay calm. The steps you take next matter for your safety and your insurance claim.
- Pull over safely. Move to the shoulder and turn on your hazard lights.
- Check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
- Call the police. A police report can help with your insurance claim.
- Stay away from the deer. A hurt deer can kick and cause serious harm.
- Take photos. Get pictures of your car, the scene, and any damage.
- Call your insurance company. Report the crash as soon as you can.
Don’t assume your car is safe to drive, even if the damage looks small. Broken lights, a loose hood, or leaking fluid all mean you should get a tow instead.
Hidden Damage When Your Car Is Hit by a Deer
When your car is hit by a deer, the damage is often worse than it looks. A small dent in the bumper can hide big problems behind it. That’s why a full inspection matters.
- A deer can weigh 150 pounds or more. At highway speed, that’s a lot of force. Common hidden damage includes:
- Bent brackets and supports behind the bumper
- A cracked radiator or cooling parts
- Damaged sensors for safety features like lane assist and automatic braking
- Frame or structural damage that changes how your car protects you in a future crash
Your car’s frame and crumple zones are built to protect you. If they’re damaged and not repaired correctly, they may not work the way they should next time. Quality repairs aren’t just about looks. They’re about keeping you safe.
Why OEM Parts Matter for Deer Collision Repair
Not all repair parts are the same. The parts used in your deer collision repair can change how well your car protects you down the road.
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. These parts come from the company that built your car. They’re made to fit and perform just like the originals.
Aftermarket parts are made by other companies. They may cost less, but they don’t always fit or perform the same way. That can affect safety features and how your car handles an impact.
At Hammer’s Autoworks, we believe your car should be repaired with the parts it was built with. That way, you know it will protect you the way it was designed to.
How Insurance Works When You Hit a Deer
Many drivers aren’t sure how insurance handles an animal crash. The good news is that it’s often simpler than you think.
In many cases, hitting a deer falls under comprehensive coverage, not collision. Insurers usually treat it as an event you couldn’t fully control. Every policy is different, so check with your agent to know what yours covers.
You also have the right to choose your repair shop. You don’t have to go where your insurance company sends you. Nails and the team at Hammer’s Autoworks work with your insurance company to make sure your car gets the repairs it truly needs. We handle the back-and-forth so you can get back to your routine.
Get Expert Help After a Deer Crash
If you hit a deer this fall, don’t wait to get your car checked. Small damage today can turn into a safety risk tomorrow.
We don’t give estimates over the phone. Deer damage is often hidden, so a phone quote would never be accurate. Instead, we look at your car in person so you know exactly what it needs.
Whether you’re dealing with a cracked bumper, a broken headlight, or major damage after being hit by a deer at highway speed, our team is ready to help. Call Hammer’s Autoworks or stop by the shop to schedule your inspection today. We’ll work with your insurance and get you back on the road safely.