Avoid hitting a deer
Contributed by The South Carolina Insurance News Service

Deer season generally runs from October through December, and there's a dramatic increase in the movement of the deer population during this time of year. As a result, your chances of being in a deer-vehicle collision become greater. The South Carolina Insurance News Service warns drivers to be especially cautious this fall.

Each year there are more than 1.5 million deer/auto collisions resulting in approximately 150 deaths and tens of thousands of injuries and over one billion dollars in vehicle damage nationwide according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety reports that last year there were 14 deaths due to deer collisions. There were also 890 injuries as a result of 2,992 collisions with deer and other animals in 2005 in South Carolina.

The Insurance Information Institute estimates the average cost per insurance claim relating to deer collisions is $2,600 nationwide, but can run as high as $11,000. In a survey of insurance companies who track deer collisions in South Carolina, the average claim is below average at $ 2,239. Collision with a deer or animals is covered under the comprehensive portion of your automobile policy.

Allison Dean Love of the South Carolina Insurance News Service says, "Be especially attentive just before and after sunrise and from sunset to midnight, and also pay attention to all deer crossing signs."

The South Carolina Insurance News Service suggests you take these precautions while driving:

Drive with caution in posted areas and in areas known to have a large deer population especially in the early morning and evening hours.

If you see a deer cross the road, look for others. Deer often move in groups.

If you think you're going to hit a deer, then brake firmly and stay in your lane. If you swerve to avoid it, the results can be even worse. If you hit the deer, do not touch it. Call the police immediately to report the incident.

Use your high-beam headlights to see the eyes of the deer better on and near the roadway. Also, blow your horn to frighten the deer away.

Heed deer crossing signs, lower your speed, always buckle up and stay awake, alert and sober.

Contact your insurance agent or company as quickly as possible to report any damage to your car.

For more information on auto insurance in South Carolina or for an interview call 803-252-3455 or e-mail alove@scinsnews.com