‘Tis the Season for Deer-Vehicle Accidents
Did you know that November is the month when you are most likely to hit a deer when driving along forested or rural New York roads? Such accidents can involve costly repairs and serious injuries to Hudson Valley drivers. Read on for information about these accidents, ways to avoid the crashes, and what to do if you are in an accident involving a deer.
Deer-Vehicle Accident Facts
Deer mating and migration season occurs between October and January. This results in a higher rate of deer attempting to cross busy roads; hence the high rate of such crashes in November. State Farm Insurance has calculated that, nationwide, over 1.25 million drivers will be involved in a deer-vehicle crash each year, and that approximately 1 in every 159 New York state drivers will get in an accident precipitated by a deer. This rate is surely higher in less-developed areas of the state like the Hudson Valley than in major cities. On average, claims for deer-vehicle accidents are valued at over $4,100. Drivers are most likely to encounter a deer during the animal’s active hours, between 5 p.m. and midnight, as well as between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. When driving along a wooded back road, use your high beams as much as you can, so that you have the maximum amount of visibility possible. If you do see one deer, keep in mind that there are likely many more where that one came from. If conditions allow, stop your car by the side of the road and wait for any additional deer to cross before continuing. Many deer-vehicle accidents occur not by a driver hitting the animal, but by the deer running into or on top of the car from the side.
Deer-Vehicle Accident Tips
If you live in a relatively wooded area and do not already have comprehensive car insurance, you should seriously consider modifying your coverage to include it. While a collision with another vehicle would fall under your collision coverage, colliding with an animal is generally treated in the same way that damage from a storm or vandal would be treated, and would only be covered by a comprehensive policy. If you are in a crash, attempt to document the damage and accident scene as well as you can. If any witnesses have pulled over to help, ask for their contact information, in the event you need additional support for your damage claim. Obtaining full compensation for all your losses when the insurance company is relying only on your word can be difficult; enlisting an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you recover fully from your losses in a crash.
If you have been injured in a crash in the Kingston, Marlboro, or Dutchess County area, contact an experienced Kingston traffic accident lawyer of Rusk, Wadlin, Heppner & Martuscello for a consultation on your claims, at 845-331-4100.
