Not all car accidents involve two vehicles. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimates there are approximately 1.5 million car crashes in the United States that involve deer or other animals/livestock.  The number of fatalities has risen by 100% over the past 15 years reaching approximately 200 annually.

October – December (deer season) are considered the most dangerous months, which coincide with the deer’s mating season (Rutt).  Deer are nocturnal creatures and pose the highest risk of being involved in an accident from dusk to dawn.  They also tend to travel in packs, so if you see one be prepared to look out for others.   Accidents of this nature are more apt to occur in more rural areas like Chico, Oroville, Loomis, Penryn, Auburn, Wheatland, Woodland, Yuba City and Marysville.

There is often very little one can do to avoid a collision with a deer, that is why it is very important to drive with caution near deer or animal crossing signs.  And, always wear your seat belt to protect you when you have been in an auto accident.  Some say that one thing to do if a collision is eminent is to brake and hold the wheel straight.  I am not sure if this is the correct thing to do or not when involved in a deer vs. auto accident.  After you have come to a complete stop call 911 to report the accident, especially if someone is hurt, there is property damage, and if you plan on filing a claim with your insurance carrier.  After you call 911, contact your insurance company immediately advising them of the auto accident.  Accidents in which the driver strikes an animal, such as a deer or elk, are usually covered by your automobile insurance.

Penney & Associates (often misspelled Penny) injury lawyers are dedicated to providing competent legal advice concerning automobile accidents with offices throughout California including Roseville, Rocklin, Loomis, Chico, Fairfield, Newport Beach, Sacramento and Santa Clara.  Most of our lawyers are former insurance company lawyers so their knowledge of the other side is extensive.  We know how the other side operates, our lawyers have been there.

For more information about Penney & Associates and the managing attorney Fred Penney, please visit our website at www.penneyandassociates.com or contact one of our lawyers by calling toll free 1-800- 616-4529.