How To Prevent Deer-Car Accidents

Written by Nathan Kurtin—Co-Owner, Executive Vice President

October 1, 2025 · Personal Lines

Blog How To Prevent Deer-Car Accidents

A quiet country road, the sun low on the horizon—and suddenly, a deer darts out in front of your car. It’s a scenario more common than you might think. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 1.5 million deer-related accidents happen each year in the U.S., causing more than $1 billion in vehicle damage, injuring around 10,000 people, and tragically, resulting in about 200 fatalities.

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Deer collisions can happen quickly, but with some knowledge and a few safe driving habits, you can reduce your risk.

When to Be on High Alert

Deer are active all year, but the risk of hitting one spikes in certain conditions:

  • Dawn and dusk: These are their most active hours, especially between sundown and midnight.
  • Breeding season (October–January): Deer are more mobile and unpredictable during mating season.
  • Winter months: As food becomes scarce, deer may wander closer to populated areas and right into traffic.
  • Low visibility: Rain, snow, and early darkness make it harder to spot movement on the roadside.

Slow down and stay alert whenever you’re driving during these conditions—especially in areas where you’ve seen deer before or where signs are posted.

Where to Watch for Wildlife

Deer are found across most of the U.S., including suburban neighborhoods, farmland, and wooded highways. Be extra cautious in areas where roads cut through forests, open fields, or near rivers and creeks; these spots are prime deer habitat.

Pro tip: If you see a dead deer on the roadside, you’re in a high-risk area. Stay extra alert.

What to Watch For

  • Deer crossing signs aren’t random—they’re placed in known high-traffic zones.
  • “Eyeshine” is often your first clue. Your headlights will reflect off a deer’s eyes in the dark.
  • One deer often means more. Deer travel in groups, so if you see one, there are likely others nearby.

How to Avoid a Collision

Two words: slow down.

  • Slow down in wooded or rural areas, especially on blind hills and curves.
  • Use high beams at night when it’s safe. They help you spot animals on the roadside.
  • Don’t swerve. If a deer crosses your path, brake firmly but stay in your lane. Swerving can lead to more dangerous accidents with other vehicles or roadside objects.
  • Honk once, firmly. A single loud blast on your horn can sometimes scare deer away from the road.

These tips don’t just apply to deer. Many types of wildlife—including elk, wild hogs, and coyotes—can wander onto the road. These same precautions will help you avoid those, too.

What If You Hit a Deer?

Even with the best precautions, accidents still happen. If you hit a deer:

  1. Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt.
  2. Stay safe. Pull off the road and turn on your hazard lights.
  3. Call local authorities. Even if there’s no human injury, they’ll help file a report and remove the animal if needed.
  4. Contact your insurance company.

Important: Hitting a deer is typically covered by comprehensive insurance, not collision. You may be responsible for the damage if you only have collision coverage.

Make Sure You’re Covered

You never know when a deer (or other animal) might dart into your path. Having the right insurance can help you recover quickly if something unexpected happens.

Contact your Leavitt Group Texas Select advisor to review your auto coverage. We’ll help you make sure your policy includes comprehensive protection so you’re covered, even when nature throws you a curveball.

Have questions? Contact:

Nathan Kurtin

Nathan Kurtin

Co-Owner, Executive Vice President

Call: (713) 978-7811

I started in the insurance industry with my first job out of college at a family-owned insurance business in Houston, Texas. The office was very small, but it felt like home and was an amazing place where I built my foundation in insurance.

In 2001, I was fortunate to start my own agency with Nationwide, and from 2001 to 2024, I owned and operated Kurtin Insurance and Financial Services. Over those years, I had the pleasure of working with many clients who became friends and many employees whom I consider family.

In 2024, my agency affiliated with Leavitt Group Texas Select, where I’m currently responsible for leading our personal insurance department. I feel blessed to continue working with my clients and many of my Kurtin Insurance employees (family) who came to Leavitt Group with me.

I grew up in a small central Texas town and graduated from Texas A&M with a degree in industrial distribution. Community involvement is important to me, so I stay active by being part of St. John Vianney, the Knights of Columbus, and the FIND Discipleship group.

My wife and I have been married for over 23 years and love doing life together. In my free time, I enjoy tennis, golf, hunting, fishing, and traveling.

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