Why November Is Peak Deer Collision Season
November might bring cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice, but it also brings something far less pleasant: deer season. And we’re not just talking about hunting.
For drivers, November marks peak deer season collisions, when these unpredictable animals are most active and most dangerous on the road.
The numbers don’t lie. More than 1.5 million deer-vehicle collisions happen every year in the United States, with November accounting for a disproportionate share. The result is billions in vehicle damage, thousands of injuries, and insurance claims that often catch drivers off guard.
Understanding the Rut: When and Where Deer Are Most Dangerous
Why November? It’s mating season, known as the rut, when deer movement increases dramatically.
They’re most active at dawn and dusk, exactly when visibility is low and many people are commuting. Shorter daylight hours only make things worse.
States like West Virginia, Montana, Pennsylvania, and Michigan see the highest rates of deer season collisions, but no region is immune. Rural highways, wooded areas, and roads near water sources are especially high-risk.
The True Cost of Hitting a Deer
Hitting a deer often causes serious damage. Even a low-speed impact can result in thousands of dollars in repairs. At highway speeds, vehicles are frequently totaled.
What surprises many drivers is that not all insurance policies cover animal strikes. If you only carry liability coverage, you’re likely paying for repairs out of pocket.
Comprehensive coverage is what protects you from deer season collisions, and it’s one of the most commonly overlooked gaps in auto insurance.
Does Your Insurance Cover Animal Strikes?
Even with comprehensive coverage, a deer collision isn’t free. You’ll still pay your deductible, and depending on your insurer, it may influence your rate at renewal.
Some companies treat animal strikes as no-fault incidents. Others factor repeated claims into pricing. It’s worth understanding how your policy handles wildlife-related damage before fall driving ramps up.
If you haven’t reviewed your policy recently, this is a good moment to double-check what’s included: https://quotescouts.com/review-your-auto-insurance-policy/
How to Avoid Deer Season Collisions
Most deer collisions are preventable with awareness and caution.
Slow down in high-risk areas, especially during dawn and dusk. If you see one deer, expect more, they rarely travel alone.
Avoid swerving. Swerving often leads to worse accidents involving other vehicles or fixed objects. Brake firmly, stay in your lane, and maintain control.
Use high beams when there’s no oncoming traffic. Deer eyes reflect light, giving you extra reaction time. And put distractions away. One distracted second is all it takes.
Protect Your Vehicle This Fall
Deer season comes around every year, and the risk is real. Staying alert helps, but coverage matters too.
If your driving routine includes rural roads or evening commutes, this is a smart time to reassess whether your insurance still fits your risk profile. Small adjustments now can prevent major financial stress later.
At QuoteScouts, we believe protecting your vehicle means planning for the things you can’t predict, including wildlife.
