Ohio Deer Collisions Prompt Claims Increase

With deer-vehicle collisions reportedly on the rise, Ohio Insurance Director Ann Womer Benjamin is asking Ohio motorists to investigate their insurance options and to take extra precaution while traveling.

Typically, vehicle accidents involving deer are at their peak this time of the year, and early evening and dawn driving times are of particular concern. According to an industry report, there were 31,729 deer-vehicle collisions in Ohio in 2003, a 4.7 percent increase over the previous year.

“Fall is the time of year when most deer-vehicle accidents occur,” said Womer Benjamin. “Ohio’s large deer population, coupled with its vast roadway system and numerous vehicles, increases the likelihood of an accident. It is important to know what to do should you strike a deer and to understand the insurance implications of such an incident.”

The Department’s Consumer Services Division can provide information on how to ensure one’s automobile is protected from damages caused by deer-vehicle collisions. Most automobile insurance policies pay for damages (after deductible) caused in deer-vehicle collisions through comprehensive coverage.

Also called “other than collision,” comprehensive coverage normally pays claims due to losses such as theft, vandalism, and fire. Ohio law does not require drivers to carry comprehensive coverage, so one’s policy may or may not contain it.