Deer strikes are an unfortunate yet common occurrence in many parts of Georgia, especially in suburban and rural areas like North Atlanta. These accidents can be particularly dangerous as they often occur unexpectedly, especially during dawn and dusk when deer are more active. While these types of crashes may not involve another driver, they can still lead to significant damage to both your vehicle and your health. Understanding how insurance policies apply in these cases is crucial, especially when it comes to uninsured motorist coverage.
What Are Deer Strikes and How Do They Happen 
A deer strike crash occurs when a vehicle collides with a deer, typically causing damage to the vehicle and sometimes leading to injuries for the driver or passengers. These types of accidents happen most frequently in areas near forests, highways, and rural roads where deer are common. Deer are often harder to spot, particularly in areas where they cross roads without warning. This increases the risk of a driver hitting the animal, especially at night or early in the morning.
In North Atlanta, deer collisions are more common in areas like Milton, Alpharetta, and Johns Creek. These areas, with their suburban and rural settings, provide ample opportunity for deer to wander onto roadways. In some cases, these animals can cause severe damage to your vehicle, especially if the impact occurs at high speeds. However, unlike typical car accidents where another vehicle is involved, a deer strike accident involves only the animal and can often leave the driver with limited options for compensation unless they have specific insurance coverage.
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How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Can Help With Deer Strike Crashes
Uninsured motorist coverage is a term most commonly associated with accidents involving drivers who do not carry adequate insurance. However, this type of coverage can also extend to situations like deer strike accidents where no third-party vehicle is involved. If you are involved in a deer strike accident, your own insurance policy might offer compensation depending on the nature of your coverage.
In many cases, deer strike accidents are covered by comprehensive insurance policies, which protect drivers against damage caused by events outside of their control, such as vandalism, theft, or collisions with animals. However, when an accident occurs without another driver involved, uninsured motorist coverage can help fill the gaps, especially when the animal involved is not covered under your comprehensive insurance.
Uninsured motorist coverage is designed to cover the expenses when you are unable to collect compensation from another driver, such as in a hit-and-run or a crash where the responsible driver lacks insurance. In the case of a deer strike, this coverage can help with vehicle repairs, medical expenses, and other related costs if your regular insurance policy does not cover animal-related accidents.
When Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Apply
Uninsured motorist coverage typically applies in two scenarios: when you are involved in a crash with an uninsured driver or when you are injured by a driver who cannot be located, such as in a hit-and-run. However, in the context of a deer strike, the concept of uninsured motorist coverage can apply differently. If you are unable to file a claim against another driver for damages caused by a deer, uninsured motorist coverage can potentially help cover medical expenses, repair costs, and lost wages if the accident involves only your vehicle and a deer.
For uninsured motorist coverage to apply to a deer strike, several factors need to be considered. The most important factor is that you must have this coverage as part of your insurance policy. In Georgia, uninsured motorist coverage is optional, but it can offer significant protection in cases like deer strikes. If you do not have comprehensive insurance that covers damage from animals, UM coverage might provide an alternative way to cover the costs associated with the crash.
Verdicts & Settlements
Another important consideration is whether the deer strike leads to a claim that falls within the terms of your policy. For example, if the damage caused by the deer is severe enough to warrant significant repairs or medical attention, you may be able to use your uninsured motorist coverage to help cover the costs. This is particularly useful in cases where comprehensive insurance does not cover animal-related damages or where the cost of repairs exceeds your coverage limits.
Why Having Uninsured Motorist Coverage is Essential for Drivers in North Atlanta
In North Atlanta, where deer strikes are relatively common, having uninsured motorist coverage can be a game-changer for drivers. This area’s mixture of suburban and rural roads provides the perfect environment for deer to cross roadways unexpectedly. With high-speed limits and vehicles traveling at fast speeds, the chances of severe damage in a deer strike accident are high.
Many drivers are unaware that uninsured motorist coverage can cover these types of incidents until after the accident has occurred. This coverage can help alleviate the financial strain of repairing your vehicle, paying for medical treatments, and replacing lost wages due to the accident. In areas where deer-related accidents happen frequently, understanding your insurance policy and ensuring that you have the right coverage in place can save you a great deal of time, money, and stress.
Additionally, having uninsured motorist coverage can provide peace of mind knowing that you are protected not just from uninsured drivers, but also from accidents involving wildlife. As deer migration seasons fluctuate throughout the year, particularly in the fall and spring, it’s crucial to ensure that you are covered for a variety of accident scenarios.
Steps to Take After a Deer Strike Accident in North Atlanta
If you are involved in a deer strike accident in North Atlanta, there are several steps you should take to ensure that your claim is properly filed and that you can receive compensation. First, it’s essential to assess the damage caused by the collision. Take photographs of your vehicle, the scene of the crash, and any injuries that you or your passengers may have sustained. This documentation will serve as vital evidence when filing your insurance claim.
Next, contact your insurance company and report the incident as soon as possible. Provide as many details as you can about the accident, including the time of day, the location, and whether the deer caused damage to your vehicle. In some cases, your insurance company may send an adjuster to evaluate the extent of the damage. Be sure to inquire whether your policy covers deer strikes, and if not, ask if your uninsured motorist coverage can be applied.
If your vehicle was severely damaged, you may also want to reach out to a local attorney to discuss your options. A lawyer can assist you with navigating the insurance claim process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your damages. Legal representation may also be helpful if you need to take further action against your insurance company or if your claim is denied.
The Importance of Seeking Legal Help for Deer Strike Claims
While insurance companies are often the first point of contact after a deer strike, legal assistance can be invaluable in navigating complex claims processes. If you find that your insurance company is not offering fair compensation or if your claim is denied, a skilled attorney can help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Attorneys who specialize in automobile accidents, including those involving uninsured motorist coverage, can assist you in ensuring that all aspects of your claim are properly handled.
If you are facing difficulties with your claim, consulting an attorney can provide you with the necessary guidance to pursue further action, whether it involves appealing a denial or seeking compensation from other sources. In some cases, an attorney can even help negotiate a settlement with your insurance provider, ensuring that your damages are adequately covered.
Deer strikes are more common than many North Atlanta residents realize, and having the right insurance coverage is essential to protecting yourself from the financial burdens these accidents can cause. While comprehensive coverage might cover animal-related accidents, uninsured motorist coverage offers additional protection, especially when the accident involves no other vehicles.
Understanding the terms of your insurance policy and ensuring that you have adequate coverage for wildlife collisions is key. As deer strikes continue to be a risk in the area, having the right insurance coverage and legal representation in place can make all the difference.
If you’ve been involved in a deer strike accident in North Atlanta and need assistance navigating your insurance claim, the Keenan Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights, manage the claims process, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.