What Happens If You Hit a Deer in Rhode Island?
It’s More Common Than You Might Think
If you drive in Rhode Island — especially during fall, winter, and early spring — encountering deer on the road isn’t unusual. And unfortunately, accidents involving deer happen more often than many drivers realize.
If you hit a deer in Rhode Island, it can be stressful and confusing. You may be wondering:
Should I call the police?
Will my insurance cover this?
Is it considered an at-fault accident?
What should I do next?
Understanding what happens after a deer accident can help you stay calm and make smart decisions.
First: Make Sure You’re Safe
If you hit a deer, your safety comes first.
Here’s what you should do immediately:
Pull over to a safe location if possible
Turn on your hazard lights
Check yourself and any passengers for injuries
Call 911 if anyone is hurt
Even if the accident seems minor, safety should always be the priority.
Should You Call the Police?
In Rhode Island, it’s often a good idea to call the police after hitting a deer, especially if:
There’s vehicle damage
The deer is blocking the road
Someone is injured
Your vehicle isn’t drivable
A police report can also be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
Will Insurance Cover Hitting a Deer?
This is one of the most common questions.
In most cases, hitting a deer is covered under comprehensive coverage, not collision coverage.
Comprehensive coverage typically applies to:
Animal collisions
Weather damage
Theft
Falling objects
If you carry comprehensive coverage on your auto policy, your vehicle damage may be covered — minus your deductible.
If you only carry liability coverage, damage to your vehicle may not be covered.
Is Hitting a Deer Considered Your Fault?
In most cases, hitting a deer is considered a no-fault incident.
Because you can’t control wildlife crossing the road, insurers typically treat deer accidents differently than collisions with other vehicles.
However, every situation is unique, and your insurance carrier will evaluate the claim.
What About Damage to Your Vehicle?
Deer accidents can cause a wide range of damage, including:
Front-end damage
Hood damage
Headlight damage
Windshield damage
Even a low-speed impact can result in significant repair costs, which is why comprehensive coverage can be valuable.
Should You Take Photos?
Yes — documenting the scene is helpful.
If it’s safe to do so, take photos of:
Vehicle damage
The surrounding area
The deer (if visible and safe)
This documentation can help support your insurance claim.
Can You Drive Your Car After?
If your vehicle appears safe to drive, you may be able to continue.
However, watch for:
Fluid leaks
Broken lights
Steering issues
Overheating
If you're unsure, it’s best to have your vehicle towed and inspected.
When Deer Accidents Are Most Common in Rhode Island
Deer accidents tend to increase during:
Fall (rutting season)
Early winter
Dawn and dusk hours
Drivers should stay alert, especially in wooded areas and rural roads.
How to Reduce Your Risk
While deer accidents can’t always be avoided, a few precautions can help:
Slow down in deer-prone areas
Use high beams when appropriate
Watch for deer crossing signs
Stay alert during dawn and dusk
If you see one deer, there are often more nearby.
Final Thoughts
Hitting a deer in Rhode Island can be stressful — but knowing what to do makes a big difference.
Remember:
Stay safe first
Call authorities if needed
Document the damage
Contact your insurance company
Understanding your coverage before an accident happens can also help you avoid surprises.
Call to Action
If you have questions about your auto insurance coverage or want to review your policy, Slocum Insurance is here to help.
Reach out anytime to make sure you’re protected before you need it.
