
If you're a GEICO policyholder and you hit a deer, you're probably wondering if your insurance will cover the damages. Fortunately, GEICO's comprehensive and collision coverage can help.
GEICO's comprehensive coverage can repair or replace your vehicle if it's damaged in a deer collision. This coverage is usually optional, but it's highly recommended if you live in an area with a high deer population.
The cost of comprehensive coverage varies depending on your location and vehicle, but it's usually relatively affordable. According to GEICO's website, comprehensive coverage can cost between $100 and $300 per year.
GEICO's collision coverage is also designed to help you recover from a deer collision. This coverage pays for repairs to your vehicle, regardless of who's at fault.
Insurance Coverage
Hitting a deer is not considered a collision, so liability insurance won't cover the damages. You need comprehensive auto insurance to file a claim for hitting a deer.
Comprehensive insurance is designed to protect you from financial losses resulting from incidents that aren't the result of a collision with another vehicle, including wildlife-related incidents.
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You can't buy comprehensive insurance as a stand-alone policy, you need to carry liability coverage and add comprehensive insurance to cover non-collision-related damages. This comes at an additional cost, with rates varying based on your personal driving record and eligibility for special discounts.
Most car insurance policies, including GEICO, have a deductible for comprehensive coverage, which is typically applicable for wildlife-related damage claims. The deductible is the amount you are responsible for paying out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in.
Comprehensive coverage can provide protection against non-collision incidents, including damage caused by wildlife, and is an optional add-on to your GEICO car insurance policy. It's not mandatory, but having comprehensive coverage can offer valuable peace of mind and financial protection.
GEICO car insurance offers a range of coverage options, including collision coverage, which can provide protection in the event of a collision with another vehicle or object, regardless of fault. This coverage can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
If you have comprehensive car insurance in GEICO, you are covered for deer collisions, and animal-related damages are indeed covered under comprehensive plans.
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Deer Collision

Hitting a deer is not considered a collision under auto insurance, and it won't usually affect your insurance rates. However, it's essential to have comprehensive auto insurance coverage to file a claim for damages.
You need to carry liability coverage and add comprehensive insurance to cover deer-related incidents. Comprehensive insurance is not a stand-alone policy, but it can be added to your existing policy for an additional cost. Rates vary based on your driving record and eligibility for special discounts.
Deer collisions are also referred to as "deer car accidents" or "deer collisions" by insurance companies. If you're involved in a deer collision, it's best to follow the steps outlined in the safety tips section to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
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What Is a Deer
Deer are common culprits in car accidents.
Insurance companies have a specific term for claims involving deer: "deer collisions" or "deer car accidents."
Deer are often hit by cars because they are difficult to see in time.
On a similar theme: Hitting a Deer Insurance Claim
Wildlife-Related Vehicle Risks
Wildlife-related vehicle risks are a real concern, especially in areas with dense animal populations. In fact, collisions with wildlife can result in significant damage to your vehicle, posing not only a safety risk but also a financial burden.
Driving cautiously in wildlife-prone areas can help reduce the risk of wildlife-related damage to your vehicle. This includes using deer whistles and keeping an eye out for any signs of animal activity.
Animals can cause damage by scratching or denting the exterior of the vehicle, especially if they are trying to climb on top or get inside. Some animals may even chew on wires or other components under the hood, leading to costly repairs.
The types of animals that can cause damage to your vehicle include deer, elk, moose, and even smaller critters like raccoons, possums, or birds. These animals can unexpectedly dart into your path, causing accidents and extensive damage to your vehicle.
If you do collide with a deer or other wildlife, your insurance may cover the damages if you have comprehensive coverage. This type of insurance is usually required to cover wildlife-related damage claims, and some states may have specific requirements or restrictions for such claims.
Here's a breakdown of deductible amounts for different types of insurance coverage:
As you can see, the deductible amount can vary depending on the type of insurance coverage you have. It's essential to review your policy or contact your insurance provider directly for detailed information on deductibles and coverage.
Rate Increases
Hitting a deer may not raise your insurance rates, but other factors related to the incident can affect your rates. These factors include the severity of the damage, the cost of repairs, and your insurance company's policies.
Filing a claim for hitting a deer might not necessarily result in a rate increase, but if the claim exceeds a certain threshold, it could impact your rates. Each insurance company has its own guidelines for determining when a claim affects your rates.

Some states have laws that determine fault in accidents involving pedestrians, which can impact your insurance rates. If you're in an accident with a pedestrian, you should move off the road to a safe place, check on the pedestrian, and call 911 and file a police report.
To avoid rate increases, you can choose not to file a claim if the damage is minimal and the repair cost is below your deductible. However, consulting with your insurance provider before making a decision is recommended.
Here's a breakdown of how different types of insurance coverage can affect your rates:
Note: The rates listed are for full coverage insurance, which includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage.
If you're unsure about how hitting a deer will affect your insurance rates, it's best to contact your provider directly to understand how it handles deer collision insurance claims.
Insurance Requirements
Geico does not generally require a police report for hitting a deer, but it can be helpful for the claim process.
If reporting wildlife accidents is required by law in your state, you will likely need the report to file an insurance claim.
Some states may have specific requirements or restrictions for wildlife-related claims, so it's a good idea to review your policy or contact Geico directly for detailed information.
Types of Wildlife

Wildlife can cause damage to your vehicle in various ways. Deer, elk, and moose are examples of larger animals that can collide with your car.
Comprehensive coverage typically applies to wildlife incidents, but specific policy terms and conditions may vary. GEICO car insurance may cover damage caused by these animals.
Smaller wildlife, such as birds, rodents, or reptiles, can also cause damage to your vehicle. These animals can nest in the engine compartment, chew through wires, or scratch the paint.
Non-collision incidents, such as animal-related vandalism, are also covered under comprehensive coverage.
Requirements for Accidents
If you're involved in an accident, like hitting a deer, you'll want to know what's required to file an insurance claim.
Some insurance companies, like Geico, don't require a police report, but you may still need one if your state law demands it.
In states where reporting wildlife accidents is mandatory, you'll likely need a police report to file your claim.
State Farm has a similar stance, not requiring a police report, but you might need one if your state requires it.
Remember to check your state's laws to see if a report is necessary for your claim.
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Collision Safety Tips

If you're involved in a deer collision, it's essential to take care of yourself and others on the road. Pull your vehicle over to the side of the road and turn into a safe location, then turn on the hazard lights.
After hitting a deer, you're not required by law to stay on the scene, but it's best to take time to assess the situation immediately. You should phone the local non-emergency police number to report the situation, and they'll contact the appropriate agencies if necessary.
Documenting the accident is crucial, including photos or descriptions of the surroundings, any damage or injuries, and witness information. Stay away from the wounded deer and don't chase after it if it flees.
If you're unable to drive your vehicle home, contact roadside assistance or arrange to have it towed. You'll also need to contact your auto insurance company to report the accident and send your documentation.
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Here are the steps to take after hitting a deer:
- Pull your vehicle over to the side of the road and turn into a safe location.
- Phone the local non-emergency police number to report the situation.
- Document the accident, including photos or descriptions of the surroundings.
- Stay away from the wounded deer.
- Contact your auto insurance company to report the accident.
- Assess your vehicle and arrange for towing if necessary.
Insurance Claims
Insurance claims for hitting a deer can be a straightforward process, but it's essential to understand what's required. Geico doesn't necessarily need a police report for hitting a deer, but if your state requires reporting wildlife accidents, you'll need the report to file a claim.
If you're involved in a deer accident, don't worry about it affecting your rates - insurance companies consider it a comprehensive claim, which doesn't impact your rates like at-fault claims do. This means you can breathe a sigh of relief, knowing it won't hurt your insurance record.
Police Report Required
If you're involved in a deer accident, you might wonder if you need to file a police report. No, State Farm doesn't require a police report for hitting a deer. However, if a report is legally required in your state, you may need it to file the insurance claim.
In most cases, hitting a deer is considered a comprehensive claim by insurance companies. This means it doesn't affect your rates the same way an at-fault claim would.
Wildlife-Related Claims Deductible

If you're involved in a wildlife-related accident, you'll need to file an insurance claim with your provider. GEICO covers animal damage under comprehensive coverage, which is typically applicable for wildlife-related damage claims.
Most car insurance policies, including GEICO, have a deductible for comprehensive coverage. This deductible is the amount you're responsible for paying out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in.
The deductible amount can vary, but here's a breakdown of some common deductible amounts and their corresponding minimum and full coverage costs:
For example, if your comprehensive policy comes with a $1,000 deductible, you'll have to pay at least $1,000 before your provider covers any repair costs. It's essential to choose a deductible amount you can afford, as you'll be responsible for paying it before the insurance covers any damage.
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Is a Count an Accident
Is a Hit a Deer Count an Accident?
Hitting a deer is generally considered a random, one-time event.

Insurance companies will not raise your rates if you file a claim for hitting a deer.
In fact, insurance companies consider deer accidents comprehensive claims, which don’t affect rates the same as at-fault claims.
If you live in a state where reporting wildlife accidents is required by law, you'll need the police report to file an insurance claim.
You won't need a police report from Geico, but you may still need it to file a claim in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hitting an object collision or comprehensive?
Hitting a stationary object, like a telephone pole, is covered by collision insurance. Hitting a non-stationary object, like an animal or a falling tree, is covered by comprehensive insurance.
Sources
- https://www.autoinsurance.org/will-hitting-a-deer-raise-my-insurance-rates/
- https://www.valuepenguin.com/car-insurance/what-happens-car-hits-deer-pedestrian-building
- https://www.policygenius.com/auto-insurance/does-car-insurance-cover-animal-damage/
- https://www.usinsuranceagents.com/does-geico-car-insurance-cover-damage-caused-by-a-deer-or-other-wildlife/
- https://www.geico.com/information/aboutinsurance/auto/med-pay/
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