Each year, as the weather begins to cool and the days grow shorter, drivers in Idaho face a particular set of challenges. One of the most significant seasonal hazards involves deer on the road, especially on major highways such as Highway 55 and I-84. With more deer crossing the roads, particularly during the fall, collisions can become an unfortunate reality for many motorists.
Highways like Highway 55, which runs between Boise and McCall, and I-84, which stretches across the state, see increased deer activity this time of year. Drivers traveling through these areas are at risk of encountering wildlife unexpectedly, especially at dawn and dusk when deer are most active. As a result, these collisions can result in significant vehicle damage, personal injury, or even fatalities. It’s essential to understand what to do after a deer-related crash and how the claims process works.
Why Deer Collisions Are Common in Fall 
The fall season in Idaho presents a perfect storm for deer accidents on the road. As temperatures drop, deer become more active in search of food, especially with the approach of mating season. Additionally, the hunting season also influences deer movement, making them more likely to wander across highways. Deer are often less cautious in these months, which increases the chances of a vehicle collision.
Highways like I-84 and Highway 55 see a high volume of traffic in rural and wooded areas, making them prime locations for deer accidents. Drivers should remain alert and cautious, particularly during early mornings and late evenings when deer are most likely to cross. With limited visibility and the natural speed of travel on these highways, the risk of a serious accident increases.
The Impact of Deer Crashes on Drivers and Passengers
A deer crash on a high-speed road like I-84 or Highway 55 can be life-altering. When a deer is hit by a car, the animal can cause significant damage to a vehicle, especially if the driver attempts to swerve or brake suddenly. This often results in more severe injuries, such as head trauma, broken bones, or spinal cord injuries.
In addition to physical injuries, drivers involved in deer crashes can face financial burdens. Insurance companies may struggle to cover the full cost of damages or may question liability, leaving the driver to pay out of pocket. Understanding your insurance coverage and your rights after an accident is crucial in ensuring that you receive adequate compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
Who Pays for Your Injury Claim After a Deer Crash?
Determining who pays for your injury claim after a deer collision depends on several factors, including your insurance coverage and the circumstances surrounding the accident. In Idaho, the laws surrounding personal injury claims can be complex, so it’s essential to understand your options and seek legal counsel when needed.
Comprehensive Insurance and Deer Collisions
If you have comprehensive car insurance, your policy will likely cover accidents involving deer. Comprehensive insurance covers damages caused by collisions with animals, including deer. This type of coverage is important in protecting you financially, as it can help pay for vehicle repairs and medical costs resulting from a crash.
In Idaho, many drivers opt for comprehensive coverage because of the frequent wildlife on roads. If you do not have this coverage, it may be difficult to file a claim for damages caused by a deer crash. Comprehensive coverage typically includes not only deer collisions but also damage from vandalism, natural disasters, and theft.
Liability Insurance and Fault in Deer Crashes
In some cases, a deer crash may involve other drivers, such as in situations where a motorist swerves to avoid hitting a deer and causes a secondary crash. In this situation, liability insurance may cover the costs for your injuries if the other driver is at fault.
However, proving fault in such cases can be complicated. If you are involved in a deer crash with another driver, your lawyer may need to investigate the incident to determine whether the other driver’s actions contributed to the collision. If the other driver is found to be negligent or reckless, their liability insurance may cover your medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and any pain and suffering caused by the accident.
Personal Injury Protection Insurance and Deer Accidents
Another critical insurance policy to consider is personal injury protection (PIP). PIP covers medical expenses and other financial losses regardless of who is at fault in an accident. If you’re injured in a deer collision and are unable to prove fault, PIP can help pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and even funeral expenses if the accident is fatal.
While not mandatory in Idaho, PIP insurance is an excellent choice for those who want additional protection in case of accidents, especially during deer season when collisions are more common. PIP can be an invaluable resource in helping drivers recover after an accident, as it provides no-fault coverage for the injured party.
What If You Don’t Have Adequate Coverage?
Unfortunately, many drivers in Idaho may not have comprehensive insurance or sufficient PIP coverage to handle the financial fallout from a deer crash. In this case, the injured party may need to explore other options to cover medical expenses and vehicle repairs.
If the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence, you may still be able to pursue a personal injury claim against them. In Idaho, comparative negligence laws allow for claims even if the injured party shares some fault for the accident. For example, if you swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle, both parties may be partially at fault, but you can still file a claim for damages based on the percentage of fault.
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What to Do After a Deer Crash
If you are involved in a deer collision, there are several important steps you should take to protect your safety and legal rights.
Ensure Your Safety First
After a deer crash, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. Even if you feel fine, it’s still a good idea to get checked out by a doctor, as some injuries may not become apparent right away.
Contact the Authorities
Call law enforcement to report the accident, especially if you are on a busy highway like I-84 or Highway 55. An officer will document the scene, file a report, and provide you with important information for your insurance claim and personal injury case.
Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident scene, including your vehicle, the deer, and any visible injuries. If there is significant damage, ensure that you have photographic evidence for your claim. If possible, get witness statements or contact information to support your case.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the crash. They will guide you through the process of filing a claim, whether you have comprehensive, liability, or PIP coverage. Provide all the necessary information, including the police report and any photos or statements you have gathered.
Consult an Attorney
If you face significant injuries or difficulties with your insurance claim, it’s important to consult an experienced personal injury attorney. The attorneys at Hepworth Holzer, LLP can provide you with the guidance you need to navigate your injury claim and ensure that you receive fair compensation.
Why You Need Legal Help After a Deer Crash
Handling a personal injury claim after a deer collision can be challenging, especially if you are dealing with serious injuries or inadequate insurance coverage. A skilled attorney can help you:
- Navigate the claims process
- Deal with insurance companies
- Investigate the cause of the accident
- Prove fault and negligence
- Ensure you receive full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
An attorney will advocate on your behalf to ensure that you are not left with unnecessary financial burdens after a traumatic accident. Hepworth Holzer, LLP specializes in personal injury cases and has a proven track record of success in helping clients recover the compensation they deserve after accidents.
Contact Hepworth Holzer for Legal Help After a Deer Collision
Deer crashes on Idaho highways can lead to serious accidents with lasting consequences. If you’ve been injured in a deer collision, you don’t have to navigate the claims process alone. Hepworth Holzer, LLP is here to assist you. With years of experience representing injury victims in Boise and across Idaho, our team is ready to help you recover damages and move forward after your accident. Reach out to us today for a free consultation.