09/02/2026
Would This Be Covered?
🦌 A deer runs into your car — not the other way around.
You didn't hit the deer. The deer hit YOU. 🦌🚗
You're driving a back road in the North Country, through the Adirondacks, outside Albany—or really, just about anywhere in New York.
A deer comes out of nowhere and runs directly into the side of your vehicle.
Would that be covered?
Potentially, yes—but here's the part many drivers don't realize:
A collision with a deer or other animal is generally handled under comprehensive coverage, not collision coverage.
That distinction matters because comprehensive is an optional physical-damage coverage. If you don't carry it, damage from an animal strike may not be covered by your own auto policy.
And whether the deer hits your hood, your door, or seemingly launches itself into the side of your parked car doesn't necessarily change the basic question:
Do you carry comprehensive coverage, and what is your deductible?
September and fall bring increased deer activity across New York, so here's today's 30-second policy check:
Open your auto policy and find Comprehensive (sometimes called “Other Than Collision”). Then look at the deductible beside it.
Know what you have before the deer makes the introduction.
Coverage varies by policy and carrier. Always review your specific policy language.
