South Carolina’s scenic roads and dense forests make deer collisions a frequent hazard. Thousands of crashes occur each year, particularly during the fall breeding season when deer are most active. These incidents can cause serious vehicle damage, injuries, or even secondary crashes when drivers swerve to avoid impact.
Knowing what to do after hitting a deer helps you stay safe, comply with the law, and protect your insurance rights.
What to Do Immediately After Hitting a Deer in South Carolina
If you hit a deer, the moments right after the crash are crucial. Follow these steps to stay safe and protect your legal rights:
- Pull over safely: Move your vehicle to the shoulder or out of traffic if possible, turn on your hazard lights, and remain inside if it’s unsafe to exit.
- Check for injuries: Call 911 if you or anyone else is hurt. Even minor collisions can cause unseen injuries.
- Do not approach the deer: A wounded animal can be unpredictable or dangerous.
- Call local law enforcement: Under South Carolina Law, any collision resulting in injury, death, or significant property damage should be reported to the police immediately.
- Document the scene: Take photos of your vehicle, the road, and the deer if safe to do so.
- Notify your insurance company: Reporting the incident promptly helps ensure your claim is processed smoothly.
Who to Call After a Deer Collision
When you strike a deer, there are several parties you may need to contact depending on the situation:
- Police: Always report the collision, especially if the deer is blocking the road or there is damage or injury.
- Insurance company: Contact your insurer as soon as possible to report the accident and file a claim.
- Tow service: If your vehicle isn’t drivable, arrange for towing to a nearby repair shop.
- Wildlife officials: If the deer is alive but injured or poses a danger, notify the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. They can handle the animal safely.
Keeping these numbers in your phone can help you act quickly in stressful moments.
Understanding Your Legal Responsibilities After a Deer Collision
You are not liable for the deer, but you must report crashes that meet South Carolina’s reporting threshold.
You should:
- Stay at the scene until officers arrive (if required).
- Avoid removing the deer without authorization from SCDNR.
- Cooperate fully with law enforcement.
Failing to follow reporting rules can complicate insurance claims or result in penalties.
Does Insurance Cover Hitting a Deer in South Carolina?
Yes, but only under certain coverage types. Collisions with animals are generally covered by comprehensive insurance, not collision coverage. Comprehensive coverage pays for vehicle damage caused by events outside your control, such as animals, storms, or vandalism.
If you only have liability insurance, your policy won’t cover your own repairs. However, if you swerved to avoid a deer and struck another vehicle or object, that may fall under your collision coverage instead.
Always review your policy details or speak with your insurance agent to understand your exact coverage before an accident occurs.
Common Mistakes Drivers Make After Hitting a Deer
Many drivers unintentionally make errors that complicate claims or create legal issues. Common mistakes include:
- Leaving the scene without calling the police.
- Failing to document damage or location.
- Admitting fault to insurance or bystanders.
- Attempting to move or dispose of the deer illegally.
- Neglecting to seek medical attention for minor injuries.
Avoiding these mistakes helps protect your rights and supports a smoother insurance process.
Get Legal Help After a Deer Accident in South Carolina
Deer collisions can happen in a split second, leaving lasting physical, emotional, and financial impacts. If you’ve been injured in a deer-related crash or if another driver’s negligence made the situation worse, don’t face the aftermath alone.
A skilled South Carolina personal injury lawyer can help you handle the complex insurance claims, determine liability, and pursue fair compensation. Contact a trusted attorney today to discuss your case and learn your legal options.
