What to Do If You Hit a Deer in Oklahoma This Summer
Summertime in Oklahoma means more daylight hours to enjoy scenic drives, road trips, and the beauty of our state's natural landscapes. However, with these pleasures comes the increased likelihood of encountering wildlife on the roads, particularly deer. Collisions with deer can be a jarring experience, and many people are unsure what steps to take after the incident.
Knowing what steps to take can ensure your safety, help manage the situation effectively, and facilitate a smoother insurance claim process. At Streller Insurance Agency, we prioritize your well-being and are here to guide you through what to do if you hit a deer this summer.
If you’re not a current Streller Insurance customer, this guide will still be helpful to you! If you’re currently looking for car insurance in Oklahoma, contact our team today for a free quote. We’d love to be there for you if you ever hit a deer. (Don’t worry, we’re a great insurance partner on the good days too!)
Immediate Safety Measures
The moments immediately following a deer collision are critical for ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road. First and foremost, remain calm. Assess your own condition and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call Oklahoma emergency services right away. In Oklahoma, a 911 dispatcher can deploy the police, highway patrol, and an ambulance to help you. Your health and safety are the top priority.
Next, if your car is operational, carefully move it to a safe location off the road to avoid additional accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers, and keep your driving lights on. If you cannot move your car, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened and call for help. Exiting your vehicle in the middle of the road can be dangerous due to oncoming traffic.
Assessing the Damage
Once you are in a safe location, you can begin to assess the damage to your vehicle. Look thoroughly at the exterior for damage, such as dents, broken lights, or shattered windshields. Also, check for less visible issues, such as fluid leaks or damage to the tires and undercarriage. If your vehicle appears unsafe to drive, it is best to call a tow truck.
Documenting the damage is an important step for insurance purposes. Use your smartphone to take clear, detailed photos of the damage and the location of the incident from multiple angles. These photos will be valuable when filing your insurance claim and can help expedite the process.
Contacting Authorities After Deer Collision in Oklahoma
Even if the accident seems minor, it is advisable to contact local authorities. In Oklahoma, reporting the accident to the police can be beneficial for several reasons. A police report provides an official incident record, which can be crucial for insurance claims. Additionally, officers can help manage traffic and ensure the scene is safe for you and other drivers.
When speaking with the authorities, provide a clear account of what happened. Avoid speculating or making assumptions about the incident. Stick to the facts, as this information will be recorded in the police report.
Notifying Your Oklahoma Auto Insurance Company
After ensuring safety and contacting the authorities, the next step is to notify your Oklahoma auto insurance company. The Streller Agency team understands that dealing with an accident can be stressful, which is why our experienced team is dedicated to making the claims process as smooth as possible.
Call your insurance agent as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with all the necessary details, including the collision's time and location, the damage's extent, and any injuries sustained. Share the photos and the police report number if available. Your agent will guide you through the next steps, including arranging vehicle repairs and providing a rental car if needed. The Streller team works closely with each of our customers throughout the claims process, and we want to be a resource to you!
Understanding Your Coverage
Understanding your Oklahoma auto insurance coverage can significantly impact how you handle the aftermath of a deer collision. Comprehensive coverage typically covers damage from collisions with animals, including deer. This type of coverage helps pay for repairs or the replacement of your vehicle minus your deductible.
At the Streller Agency, we encourage clients to review their policies regularly to ensure adequate coverage. If you are uncertain about the specifics of your coverage, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you understand your policy and make any necessary adjustments to fit your needs.
Preventative Measures To Avoid Deer in Oklahoma
While avoiding deer on the road is impossible, several preventative measures can be taken to reduce the likelihood of a collision. These include:
Deer are most active during dawn and dusk, so be extra vigilant during these times
Use your high beams when appropriate to increase visibility
Always scan the sides of the road for movement
If you see a deer crossing the road, slow down and be prepared for others to follow. Deer often travel in groups, and there may be more where there is one. Use your horn to scare the deer away, but avoid swerving, as this can lead to more severe accidents.
Installing deer whistles on your vehicle can also be an effective deterrent. These tiny devices emit a sound that alerts deer of your approaching vehicle, giving them time to move away from the road. If you live in a wooded area, like east Edmond, northeast Oklahoma City, Harrah, or other wooded rural areas, installing a whistle and driving cautiously is widely recommended.
Handling Injured or Deceased Deer
If you hit a deer in Oklahoma, and the deer is injured but still alive, it is important not to approach it. Injured animals can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous. Contact local wildlife authorities or animal control for assistance. Call 911 or the local non-emergency line to request support from professionals. They have the expertise to handle the situation safely and humanely.
In the unfortunate event that the deer is deceased, notify the authorities so they can arrange for its removal. Avoid touching or moving the carcass yourself to prevent injury and the potential spread of disease.
Repairing Your Vehicle
Once you have filed your insurance claim and received approval, you can repair your vehicle. Choose a reputable repair shop to ensure high-quality work. At the Streller Insurance Agency, we can recommend trusted repair shops in Edmond, OKC, Midwest City, Del City, or your local area known for their excellent service and reliability.
Keep all receipts and documentation related to the repairs, as your insurance company will need them for reimbursement purposes. If you have any questions or concerns during the repair process, do not hesitate to contact your insurance agent for assistance.
Work With Oklahoma City’s Best Auto Insurance Team
The Scott Streller Agency team is committed to supporting our clients through every stage of an accident. If you hit a deer in Oklahoma this summer, remember to prioritize safety, document the incident, and promptly notify your insurance company.
Our team is here to provide the guidance and support you need to get back on the road safely. Contact us today to review your policy and ensure you are fully protected against all of the unexpected challenges of driving in Oklahoma.
