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I.I.I. Offers Tips to Avoid Deer-Related Collisions
INSURANCE INFORMATION INSTITUTE
Contact: Press Offices
New York: 212-346-5500; media@iii.org
Wash. D.C.: 202-833-1580
NEW YORK, September 25, 2006-Cars and deer are a lethal combination. During deer season, which generally runs from October through December, there is a dramatic increase in the movement of the deer population. Many of these deer find their way onto highways and into suburban neighborhoods. As a result, more deer-vehicle collisions occur in this period than at any other time of year, so drivers need to be especially cautious, warned the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimates that there are more than 1.5 million deer-vehicle collisions each year, resulting in 150 occupant deaths, tens of thousands of injuries and over $1 billion in vehicle damage. The average cost per insurance claim for collision damage is about $2,600, with costs varying depending on the type of vehicle and severity of damage. When you factor in auto claims involving bodily injury, the average rises to over $11,000, according to the I.I.I.
"As our wildlife habitat continues to shrink, accidents with deer and other animals are likely to increase. We need to be more vigilant in our driving," said Jeanne M. Salvatore, senior vice president and consumer spokesperson for the I.I.I.
There are steps you can take to decrease the likelihood of being involved in a deer-vehicle collision. After an aggressive communications campaign to warn policyholders and the general public about the hazard, Pennsylvania-based auto insurer Erie Insurance reported a 6 percent decline in deer claim frequency in 2005. Getting educated and taking precautions can make a difference.
The following facts can be helpful in avoiding deer-related collisions:
When driving, the I.I.I. recommends taking the following precautions:
In the event your vehicle strikes a deer, try to avoid going near or touching the animal. A frightened and wounded deer can hurt you or further injure itself, warned the I.I.I. If the deer is blocking the roadway and poses a danger to other motorists, you should call the police immediately.
Contact your insurance agent or company representative as quickly as possible to report any damage to your car. Collision with a deer or other animals is covered under the comprehensive portion of your automobile policy.
For more information about insurance, go to the I.I.I. Web site at http://www.iii.org .
The I.I.I. is a nonprofit, communications organization supported by the insurance industry.