08/06/2026
Would You Hit the Deer... or Swerve? The Answer May Surprise You.
It's a question I hear more often than you might think:
If a deer runs out in front of me, should I hit it or swerve to avoid it?
The safest answer in most situations is:
Brake hard, stay in your lane, and if you can't avoid it safely, hit the deer.
Why?
Swerving can lead to a head-on collision with another vehicle, hitting a tree or utility pole, rolling your vehicle, or seriously injuring or killing yourself, your passengers, or someone else on the road.
While hitting a deer can certainly cause significant vehicle damage, it's generally far less dangerous than losing control or colliding with another vehicle.
From an insurance perspective:
* Hitting a deer is typically covered under Comprehensive Coverage (if you carry it).
* Swerving and hitting another car, tree, or guardrail is generally considered a Collision claim, and if another person is injured or killed, liability coverage and legal consequences can become much more serious
* Slow down in areas marked with deer crossing signs.
* Watch the shoulders of the road, especially at dawn and dusk.
* If you see one deer, expect more to follow.
* Brake firmly—but don't panic and swerve unless you're absolutely certain it's safe.
Your car can be repaired or replaced. Lives can't!
Have you ever had a close call with a deer? Share your story in the comments!
