The leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and the evening commute is getting darker. Fall is a lovely time to be on the road, but it’s also the busiest season for deer crashes. At Bacon Insurance Group in Richmond, VA, we hear from drivers every year who never saw it coming. Here’s why the risk climbs and what you can do about it.
Mating Season Puts Deer on the Move
October through December is breeding season, often called the rut, when bucks chase does across fields, backyards, and highways without much caution. Deer that normally stay hidden suddenly cross open roads at all hours. Harvest activity and shorter days push them out of familiar cover, too, so they show up right where drivers least expect them.
Dusk and Dawn Are the Danger Zones
Deer are most active at sunrise and sunset, and the end of daylight saving time leaves many commuters driving in low light just when the animals are most active. Slow down on rural roads and wooded stretches, use your high beams when no one is ahead of you, and watch for eyes reflecting in the dark. If you spot one deer, expect more nearby.
What to Do After a Collision
Stay calm, pull over safely, and turn on your hazard lights. Call the police if there’s damage or injury, and never approach an injured animal. Take photos of the scene and your vehicle, then contact your insurer. Comprehensive coverage is what typically handles deer-related damage, so it’s worth confirming your policy includes it.
Drive Smart This Season
Do you have questions about your auto insurance coverage and what’s included? Bacon Insurance Group in Richmond, VA, is always ready to help you drive with confidence this fall.
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