Have you ever hit a deer? I did and didn't know what to do - should I call the cops?

Question

It's on the side of the road and there wasn't much damage to my car

Answer 1

if you want the insurance to pay for the damage, it is easier if you have a police report.

But legally you don't have to report it unless you cause damage to someone else's property. So unless you catapulted the deer into someone else's car or mailbox, you can just drive off if you wish.

Answer 2

I hit a deer a few years ago and did quite a bit of damage to my car. He was a 6 point buck, pretty good sized animal. You're very lucky, the police told me that the deer have been known to go right through the windshield and seriously injure or kill the passengers.

I called the police and filled out a report, since I had comprehensive insurance, my insurance company covered the damage without raising my rates. Any time you're involved in an accident, you should contact the police. IF you aren't covered for deer hits, don't tell the insurance company, they don't need to know.

Answer 3

i hit a deer going about 45. he ran out right in front of me, i slammed on the brakes and was going about 35 when i struck his rear end. he wasnt very big, but he wasnt small either. i was driving an 87 cadillac and it broke out my headlight, dented the hood, and broke the grille, not to mention left a nice deer hair eyelash on my headlight... lol. i didnt call the cops or anything, but the deer was limping away not dead. anyways the insurance was going to cover it, but i couldnt afford the deductable at the time.

Answer 4

We don't have deer on the roads in the Philippines.

Answer 5

I would but you wont get into trouble if you dont. it is a matter of safety for other drivers. or if they deer is somewhat still alive, they can bring it to an animal shelter or vet to see if something can be done.

Answer 6

you still need to call the police ,because if you have good enough insurance they will pay to repair your car,but not without a police report saying what happened to it,so call them and get a report made it will help you in the long run,good luck with it.

Answer 7

Yes, you should call either animal services or the police. Don't call 911, call the operator and ask for non-emergency police.

Answer 8

you ,might have to call the Game warden or fish and game
(depending on your city) if its in California you might have to
call the Highway patrol so they can connet the correct people
and have the body removed

Answer 9

yea, either that or animal control, but mostly animal control,only cops if you have no other choice

Answer 10

IF YOU WANT TO CLAIM IT, TELL THE INSURANCE COMPANY THE DEER HIT YOU.