Hello everyone, Jeff Champ here, guiding you once again through the maze of insurance conundrums. We’ve talked weather, we’ve discussed distracted driving, and today, we’re taking a slightly wilder turn. Let’s talk animals – and what happens when they unexpectedly cross our paths on the road.
Road Encounters of the Furred Kind
While scenic drives have their charm, the unpredictability of wildlife venturing onto the road poses a real risk to drivers. Whether it’s a speedy squirrel or a dashing deer, collisions with animals can be both emotionally and financially distressing.
So, Does My Auto Insurance Cover It?
In a nutshell, yes, but with a caveat. Comprehensive auto insurance generally covers damages from hitting an animal. This type of insurance isn’t mandatory but is advised, especially if you drive in areas known for frequent animal crossings.
What Should You Do After the Collision?
- Safety First: Move your vehicle to a safe spot if possible and turn on your hazard lights.
- Do Not Approach: As much as you might want to help, a wounded animal can be unpredictable. Call local animal control or the police.
- Document: Take photos of the scene, the animal, and damages to your vehicle.
- Notify the Authorities: Depending on where you are, you may need to report the accident.
- Contact Your Insurance: Get in touch with your insurance provider and discuss the incident. Having comprehensive coverage will likely make this conversation much smoother.
How Can I Prevent Such Incidents?
- Stay Alert: Especially during dusk and dawn, when animals are most active.
- Heed Warning Signs: Those deer crossing signs are there for a reason.
- Use High Beams: When there’s no oncoming traffic, high beams can help spot animals earlier.
- Honk: A long blast can sometimes scare animals away from the road.
Wrapping Up
Driving is unpredictable. While we can’t control every variable, understanding our insurance coverage and being prepared can ease the post-incident process. And always remember, it’s not just about repairing our cars, but also driving responsibly to protect all life forms we share our roads with.
Until our next insurance insight,
Peace of mind, every time,
Jeff Champ, Farmers Insurance
