What to Do If You Hit a Deer in NW Michigan: A Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on October 1, 2024 by IGNITE in Driving tips

What to Do If You Hit a Deer in NW Michigan

Deer collisions are a common and serious concern for drivers in Michigan, especially during the fall when deer are most active. The sudden appearance of a deer on the road can be startling and can cause significant vehicle damage. Knowing how to handle the situation safely can help reduce stress and ensure your vehicle is properly repaired. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you hit a deer in Northwest Michigan.

1. Prioritize Safety and Pull Over

After hitting a deer, your first priority should be safety. Slowly pull over to the side of the road if your vehicle is still drivable. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and ensure you’re in a safe location. Stay inside your vehicle until it’s safe to exit.

  • Tip: Do not attempt to approach or move the deer. Injured deer can be unpredictable and dangerous.

2. Check for Injuries

Take a moment to assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, it’s possible you may have been injured in the collision. If anyone is hurt, call 911 for medical assistance right away.

3. Contact Local Authorities

In Michigan, hitting a deer is considered an accident, and it’s important to report the collision to local authorities. Call 911 or the non-emergency police line to report the incident. This step is crucial for several reasons:

  • It helps document the accident for insurance purposes.
  • Authorities can help manage the scene if the deer is blocking the road or still alive.

In some cases, you may also be able to receive a deer kill permit if you wish to keep the deer, though this is optional and specific to Michigan law.

4. Document the Scene

Once it’s safe to exit your vehicle, take photos of the accident scene. Document the damage to your vehicle, the location, and the position of the deer if possible. This will help with the insurance claim process. Be sure to:

  • Take photos of any damage to the front bumper, hood, windshield, and any other affected areas.
  • Note the time, location, and conditions of the accident.

5. Assess Vehicle Damage

Check your vehicle for visible damage. Deer collisions can cause significant harm to the front end, including:

  • Broken headlights or turn signals – These can compromise your visibility on the road.
  • Damaged bumper, hood, or grille – These parts may need to be repaired or replaced.
  • Cracked windshield or side windows – Even small cracks can compromise the integrity of your vehicle’s glass.
  • Alignment or suspension damage – You may notice the car pulling to one side or other handling issues.
  • Fluid leaks – Look under your vehicle for any signs of leaking fluids, which could indicate more serious internal damage.

If your vehicle is unsafe to drive, call for a tow and do not attempt to continue driving.

6. File an Insurance Claim

Hitting a deer is generally covered under your comprehensive auto insurance policy in Michigan, which protects against animal-related accidents. When filing a claim, provide your insurance company with:

  • The police report number.
  • Photos and details from the scene.
  • A description of the damage.

Your insurance company may require an inspection of the vehicle before repairs can begin.

7. Bring Your Vehicle to a Trusted Collision Center

After a deer collision, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected and repaired by professionals who understand the unique needs of such incidents. At Car Center, we specialize in collision repair and have been serving Michigan drivers since 1992. We know that hitting a deer can cause hidden damage that may not be immediately apparent, such as misaligned frames or compromised safety systems.

Here’s how we can help:

  • Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection: Our expert technicians will thoroughly assess your vehicle for visible and hidden damage, ensuring all safety systems are functioning properly.
  • Auto Body Repair: Whether it’s fixing a dented bumper, replacing broken headlights, or repairing a cracked windshield, we’ll restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition.
  • Frame and Alignment Repair: Deer collisions can impact your car’s frame and alignment. Our team will check for frame damage and make the necessary adjustments to ensure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy.
  • Insurance Assistance: We work with all major insurance providers and can assist you with the claims process to make your experience as smooth as possible.

Why Choose Car Center for Deer Collision Repairs?

With locations throughout Northwest Michigan, Car Center is your trusted local collision repair shop. We hold the ASE Blue Seal of Excellence and employ a team of ASE Certified and Master Technicians. When you bring your vehicle to us, you can rest assured it’s in expert hands.

Visit Us at One of Our Convenient Locations:

Don’t wait until a minor issue becomes a major safety concern. If you’ve recently hit a deer, let us take care of your vehicle and get you back on the road safely.

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