Is Hitting a Deer Considered an At-Fault Accident in Texas?
In Texas, deer often cross roads, especially during certain times of the year. If you hit a deer with your car, you might wonder: Is hitting a deer an at fault accident? Understanding how insurance works in these situations is important. Knowing your coverage can help you handle the aftermath of such an incident.
Wildlife Collisions in Texas: A Common Danger
Texas has a large deer population, and deer frequently cross roads, leading to accidents. These incidents are more common during the fall, the mating season, and dusk and dawn when deer are most active. Hitting wildlife in Texas is a real concern for drivers, and being aware of these patterns can help you stay alert.
Is Hitting a Deer Considered an At-Fault Accident in Texas?
In auto insurance terms, an “at-fault” accident means the driver is responsible for the collision. However, hitting a deer is usually not considered an at-fault accident because it’s often unavoidable. Insurance firms classify such incidents under comprehensive coverage, not collision coverage. But if you swerve to avoid hitting a deer and collide with another vehicle or object, you could be found to be at fault. In such cases, the accident may go on your driving record, and your insurance rate might increase.
What Type of Collision Coverage Covers Deer Collisions?
To cover deer strike incidents, you need comprehensive coverage. This is the part of your auto insurance policy that covers deer-vehicle accidents in Texas and other non-collision incidents.
If you’re unsure about hitting a deer and insurance in Texas, check your policy to confirm you have comprehensive insurance for deer accidents. This is especially important because insurance for deer accidents in Texas isn’t included in basic liability coverage.
Animal Collision Insurance in Texas
Animal collision insurance isn’t a separate policy but is part of comprehensive insurance coverage. It’s important to check your insurance policy to see if you have this coverage. Comprehensive insurance coverage is optional, so it’s not included in all policies. Having it can save you from paying out-of-pocket for repairs if you hit a deer. Remember, you’ll need to pay your deductible before your insurance kicks in. The amount of your deductible can affect your premiums and the cost you’ll bear in case of an accident.
While there’s no separate policy called “animal collision insurance,” these types of crashes are covered under wildlife accident insurance in Texas, specifically through comprehensive coverage.
Many drivers assume they’re covered automatically, but Texas wildlife collision insurance is optional and needs to be added to your policy.
What to Do After Hitting a Deer in Texas
If you hit a deer, follow these steps:
- Ensure Safety: Move your vehicle off the road if possible and turn on your hazard lights.
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and passengers for any injuries.
- Call 911: Report the accident, especially if there are injuries or significant damage.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the road, and the deer if it’s safe to do so. the road, and the deer, if it’s safe to do so. These will be essential if you need to file a hit a deer insurance claim with your provider.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer about the accident to start the claims process.
It’s important not to drive off after hitting a deer, as leaving the scene can have legal consequences. A police report can be helpful when filing a claim with your coverage firm.
Legal Considerations: When Might You Be Liable?
Is hitting a deer an at fault accident? While hitting a deer is generally not your fault, there are situations where you could be considered at fault. If you swerve to prevent a deer collision and collide with another vehicle or property, you might be found negligent. In such cases, you could be liable for damages to another driver or property. Consulting a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal liability and options. An insurance firm you can rely on.
What Does Texas Law Say About Deer Accidents?
Texas is full of open roads and wild animals, so it’s not unusual to hit a deer while driving. These are often called wildlife accidents, and they’re common in rural areas, especially during dusk and dawn when deer populations are more active.
In most cases, if you hit a deer, the crash is considered unavoidable and not your fault. That’s why you usually won’t be held legally liable or found to be at fault. But remember—laws may differ depending on the situation. If another car was involved or if you swerved and hit another vehicle, then you could be at fault.
Texas drivers should make sure their auto insurance policy includes comprehensive insurance for deer accident coverage. This can protect you after a deer accident or other wildlife accident in Texas.
FAQs About Hitting a Deer in Texas
1. Will my auto insurance cover hitting a deer in Texas?
Yes. If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance policy will likely cover deer collisions. Without it, you may have to pay for the vehicle impairment out of pocket.
2. Does hitting a deer count as an at-fault accident in Texas?
Usually, no. Most insurance companies classify a deer-related accident as non-collision, meaning you won’t be considered at fault. But if you swerve to avoid hitting a deer and hit another driver, you might be considered at fault.
3. What kind of insurance do I need for a wildlife accident in Texas?
You’ll need comprehensive or collision coverage added to your auto insurance policy. This is how insurance kicks in after a deer causes damage to your vehicle. Ask your insurer if your plan includes Texas wildlife collision insurance or wildlife accident insurance Texas.
When to Contact a Texas Car Accident Lawyer
Consider reaching out to a car accident lawyer if:
- The accident resulted in serious damage to your vehicle or injuries.
- Another driver was involved, and the fault is disputed.
- Your insurance claim is denied, or you face challenges in the claims process.
At Austin Accident Lawyer, we offer free consultations. You won’t pay us unless we recover money for you. We also assist with property damage recovery at no cost to you.
Final Thoughts
So, is hitting a deer an at fault accident? Deer-related accidents are more than just an unfortunate event—they raise important insurance and legal questions. Whether you’re wondering if a deer hit is at fault, need guidance on a Texas deer accident insurance claim, or want to ensure your wildlife accident insurance in Texas has you covered, it’s important to understand your rights and options. If you’re unsure about your coverage or next steps, speaking with a Texas car accident lawyer can bring peace of mind.
