Does Insurance Cover Deer Hitting Car?

 

In Dallas and nearby suburbs like Plano and Collin County, deer collisions are a growing concern. Texas reports over 30,000 wildlife-related accidents each year—many right here in North Texas.

These crashes lead to expensive repairs, stressful claims, and unexpected downtime—especially if you rely on your vehicle for work.

This guide breaks down:

• How insurance works if you hit a deer

• What kind of coverage you actually need

• Real-life examples from Dallas drivers

• Easy ways to protect your car in high-risk areas

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Will Insurance Cover a Deer Collision in Texas?

**Yes - **but only if you have comprehensive coverage on your auto policy.

Comprehensive insurance pays for damage caused by non-collision events like:

• Deer or wildlife hits

• Storm damage

• Theft or vandalism

So, if a deer dents your hood or cracks your windshield, you’re covered—minus your deductible.

Important: Liability-only policies do not cover deer collisions. And collision coverage usually won’t apply unless you swerved and hit something else.

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Dallas Hotspots for Deer Accidents

Suburbs like Plano, Frisco, and McKinney see a spike in deer activity during October to December. Roads like I-635, US-75, and George Bush Turnpike often run through wooded areas where deer cross frequently.

This uptick aligns with the white-tailed deer's rut, or mating season, which peaks in North Texas during this period. Texas A&M NRI

Additionally, major roadways such as I-635, US-75, and the President George Bush Turnpike traverse areas that include wooded regions and greenbelts. These environments are conducive to deer habitats, increasing the likelihood of deer crossing these roads. For instance, US-75 runs through Collin County, where deer sightings and vehicle collisions have been reported.

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Real Example: What Happens If You Hit a Deer?

John, a small business owner in Dallas, hit a deer on I-635 while delivering packages. The impact totaled his front end. His repair bill came to $5,000, but thanks to comprehensive insurance, most of it was covered.

 

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Comprehensive Coverage for Deer Collisions

Comprehensive coverage protects your car from deer collisions, covering repairs or replacement after a deductible ($100–$2,000). Thumann finds affordable options from 80+ carriers.

Comprehensive insurance covers damages from events beyond your control, such as a deer hitting your car, raccoons chewing wires, or hail denting your hood. In Dallas, where deer cross roads in areas like Allen and McKinney, this coverage is essential. Deductibles, the amount you pay before insurance kicks in, typically range from $100 to $2,000. A lower deductible means higher premiums but less cost after an accident. 

Thumann explains these trade-offs clearly, avoiding confusion. For instance, we helped Kathy H. from Carrollton choose a $500 deductible, saving her $3,000 on repairs after a deer collision. Our partnerships with 80+ carriers, including The Hartford, ensure budget-friendly policies. We also check for discounts, like multi-policy bundles, to lower your costs. You deserve coverage that fits your needs without hidden surprises.

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Risks of Swerving to Avoid Deer

Swerving to avoid a deer can cause collisions with other vehicles or objects, covered by collision insurance, not comprehensive. Thumann advises safe driving to minimize risks.

Swerving to avoid a deer is a natural instinct but can lead to worse outcomes. In Dallas, where highways like I-35E are busy, swerving may cause you to hit another car, a guardrail, or a tree, potentially totaling your vehicle or causing injuries. For example, a Dallas professional swerved on SH-121, hitting a median and facing $7,000 in repairs. 

Collision insurance covers these incidents, but you may be deemed at-fault, raising your rates. Comprehensive coverage doesn’t apply if you avoid the deer but crash. Thumann’s agents educate drivers on safer alternatives, like braking firmly or honking to scare deer away, per the Insurance Information Institute. Our risk management advice helps you stay calm and avoid costly mistakes in high-pressure moments.

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Insurance Rates After a Deer Collision

Texas views deer collisions as not-at-fault, minimizing rate increases. Thumann reviews policies to keep coverage affordable after a claim.

In Texas, deer collisions are typically not-at-fault, so they rarely spike your insurance rates significantly. The Texas Department of Insurance notes that single wildlife claims seldom affect premiums, unlike at-fault accidents. However, frequent claims may reduce claim-free discounts. Thumann proactively reviews your policy to maintain affordability. For example, we helped a Dallas family bundle auto and home insurance, saving $200 annually despite a deer claim. 

Our agents answer questions like “Will my rates rise after a claim?” with clear, honest answers. We also explore accident forgiveness programs from carriers like Progressive to protect your rates. For businesses with fleets, we tailor policies to minimize rate impacts across multiple vehicles. You deserve coverage that stays cost-effective, even after an unexpected incident.

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Safety Tips for Dallas Roads

Avoid deer collisions in Dallas by slowing down in rural areas, using high beams, and watching for deer-crossing signs, especially in fall.

Deer are most active in Dallas from October to December, particularly at dawn and dusk, in rural areas like Collin County and Rockwall. Texas reports over 30,000 deer-related accidents annually, per the Texas Department of Transportation, with many on roads like FM-544. Stay safe with these tips:

• Reduce speed in wooded areas or near deer-crossing signs to gain reaction time.

• Use high beams when no cars are oncoming to spot reflective deer eyes.

• Watch for groups, as deer often travel in packs, especially in fall.

• Honk cautiously with a single long blast to scare deer off roads, per the Insurance Information Institute.

• Stay alert during deer season, avoiding distractions like phones.

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Thumann Insurance Agency’s Expertise in Dallas

Thumann’s 80+ carrier partnerships, same-day coverage, and Dallas expertise deliver tailored, affordable auto insurance for deer collisions.

Since 1996, Thumann has served over 62,000 Dallas clients, earning a 4.9/5 rating for exceptional service. Led by Steve Thumann, our licensed agents compare policies from top carriers like Chubb and The Hartford to find the best coverage. We offer same-day policies, ensuring immediate protection, a key advantage for busy professionals. Kathy H. from Carrollton, TX, shares, “Thumann made my deer collision claim stress-free, handling everything quickly and saving me thousands.” 

We prioritize transparent pricing, explaining deductibles and discounts clearly. For small businesses, we bundle commercial auto and liability policies, as we did for a Dallas landscaper, cutting costs by 15%. Thumann’s local knowledge and client-first approach make us the trusted choice for Dallas drivers seeking reliable insurance. 

Thumann’s risk advisors provide tailored guidance, helping businesses like Larkspur Landscape Design protect delivery fleets. For instance, we advised a Dallas contractor to adjust routes during deer season, reducing risks. Our Dallas expertise ensures you’re prepared for local wildlife challenges, keeping you and your passengers safe.

 

Conclusion

A deer collision in Dallas can lead to costly repairs and stress, but comprehensive coverage offers protection. Thumann Insurance Agency simplifies the process with affordable policies from 80+ carriers, fast claims, and same-day coverage. Our Dallas expertise prepares you for local risks, like deer crossings in Collin County. 

From guiding you through claims to offering prevention tips, we ensure peace of mind. Don’t let a wildlife accident catch you off guard.

Request a free Dallas auto insurance quote today or call 972.991.9100 and drive confidently with Thumann’s personalized support.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will my premium increase after a deer claim?

Texas views deer collisions as not-at-fault, so rate hikes are minimal. Thumann reviews policies to keep costs low, exploring discounts and bundling options.

What’s the deductible for a deer collision?

Deductibles range from $100–$2,000, based on your policy. We explain choices clearly, ensuring you pick an affordable option.

Does Thumann offer roadside assistance for deer accidents?

Yes, our policies include roadside assistance for towing and support, setting us apart from competitors with limited services.

Can I file a claim if I swerve and don’t hit the deer?

Swerving and crashing requires collision coverage, not comprehensive. Thumann helps you understand policy details to avoid surprises.

 

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