Does insurance go up after hitting a deer?
Yes, insurance rates may go up after hitting a deer, but it depends on your specific insurance provider and policy.
Deer collisions are common occurrences, especially in areas where deer populations are high. Hitting a deer can cause significant damage to your vehicle and potentially result in injuries. When this happens, many drivers wonder if their insurance rates will increase as a result. The short answer is that it depends. Insurance companies handle claims differently, and the impact on your rates will vary.
If you have comprehensive coverage on your auto insurance policy, hitting a deer is typically covered. Comprehensive coverage helps pay for damages to your vehicle from incidents other than collisions, such as hitting an animal or damage from weather events.
When you file a claim for hitting a deer, your insurance company will assess the damage and determine the cost to repair your vehicle. If the damage exceeds your deductible, your insurance company will likely cover the cost of repairs minus your deductible. However, filing a claim for hitting a deer can still result in an increase in your insurance rates.
Insurance companies consider several factors when determining rate increases, including the cost of the claim, the driver’s history of claims, and the likelihood of future claims. If you have a history of filing claims or if the cost of the claim is high, you may see a significant increase in your rates. On the other hand, if this is your first claim and the cost of the damage is relatively low, your rates may not go up by much, if at all.
It’s essential to review your insurance policy and speak with your insurance provider to understand how a claim for hitting a deer may impact your rates. Being informed about your coverage and potential rate changes can help you make the best decision for your situation.
FAQs about insurance rates after hitting a deer
1. Will my insurance rates go up if I hit a deer?
Yes, it’s possible for your insurance rates to increase after hitting a deer, but the extent of the increase will depend on various factors.
2. Should I file a claim if I hit a deer?
If the cost of the damage exceeds your deductible, it’s usually a good idea to file a claim. However, consider the potential impact on your rates before deciding.
3. How can I lower my insurance rates after hitting a deer?
To potentially lower your rates, you can consider taking a defensive driving course, increasing your deductible, or shopping around for a new insurance provider.
4. Will my rates go up if the deer hits my car rather than vice versa?
In most cases, hitting a deer is considered a comprehensive claim, which may have a different impact on your rates compared to a collision claim.
5. Will my rates go up if I swerve to avoid hitting a deer and crash?
If you swerve to avoid hitting a deer and end up in an accident, insurance companies may still consider this an at-fault claim, which could lead to a rate increase.
6. Will my rates go up if the deer hits another vehicle after I hit it?
If the deer causes additional damage to other vehicles after you hit it, your rates may still increase, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
7. Can I get insurance to cover hitting a deer without raising my rates?
Some insurance companies offer accident forgiveness or claim forgiveness programs that may prevent your rates from going up after a deer collision, but these programs vary by provider.
8. Will my rates go up if I hit a deer in a no-fault insurance state?
No-fault insurance states have specific laws that govern how claims are handled, so the impact on your rates after hitting a deer may differ from fault-based states.
9. Will my rates go up if I hit a deer and it’s considered a total loss?
If your vehicle is deemed a total loss after hitting a deer, your insurance rates may increase, as the cost of the claim will likely be higher.
10. Will my rates go up if I hit a deer with a rental car?
If you hit a deer while driving a rental car, the impact on your insurance rates will depend on the rental company’s policies and your personal auto insurance coverage.
11. Will my rates go up if I hit a deer and have accident forgiveness on my policy?
If you have accident forgiveness on your policy, hitting a deer may not lead to an increase in your rates, as this feature allows one forgiven claim within a specified period.
12. Can I switch insurance companies after hitting a deer to avoid a rate increase?
Switching insurance companies after hitting a deer may help you find lower rates, but be aware that your new provider may consider your claims history when determining your premiums.