Deer-Related Car Accidents in Texas: What Drivers Need to Know This Fall

Texas’s open landscapes are home to abundant wildlife — including large deer populations that often wander near busy roadways. While spotting a deer can be a beautiful moment, it can also be dangerous. Deer move unpredictably, frequently dart across lanes, and can cause severe collisions before a driver has time to react.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), up to 1.5 million deer-vehicle collisions occur nationwide each year. Texas ranks 5th in deer-related crash rates and has seen some of the highest fatality numbers between 2009 and 2018. These crashes can result not only in injuries and significant vehicle damage but also in harm to wildlife.

As November brings peak deer breeding season — when deer activity spikes — Texas drivers should take precautions and understand their insurance options if a collision occurs. This guide explains how insurance typically handles deer crashes, the steps to take after a collision, and when another party could share responsibility.

How Insurance Typically Covers Deer-Related Crashes

Deer-related collisions are not treated as traditional “at-fault” accidents. Instead, insurance companies categorize them under comprehensive coverage — an optional add-on to your auto policy.

Comprehensive coverage generally pays for damage caused by:

• Deer or wildlife collisions

• Fire

• Theft

• Storm or weather damage

• Falling objects

To use this coverage, drivers must pay their comprehensive deductible, which may differ from their collision deductible. After that, insurance will cover repairs up to the vehicle’s current value.

Because insurers still investigate these claims, it can be helpful to gather all possible documentation and speak with an attorney if any liability questions arise.

Steps to Take After a Deer Collision in Texas

Knowing what to do after a wildlife crash can protect your safety and support your insurance claim. Here’s what to do if you hit a deer:

• Pull over safely and make your vehicle visible using hazard lights.

• Do not approach the deer—injured animals can be unpredictable.

• Call local authorities, especially if the animal is blocking the road.

• Document the scene, including:

  • Skid marks

  • Vehicle damage

  • Road and weather conditions

  • Surroundings and lighting

  • Photos of the deer (without touching or moving it)

  • Any passenger injuries

• Note the time of day, especially near dusk or dawn, when deer activity is highest.

• Notify your insurance company promptly.

• Consult a personal injury attorney if someone else’s negligence played a role.

When a Third Party Could Be Liable

Most deer-related crashes are not caused by driver negligence — but in rare cases, another party may share liability. Examples include:

• Another driver’s negligence, such as forcing you to swerve into a deer.

• Municipal negligence, including missing deer-crossing signs, malfunctioning street lights, or ignored roadway hazards.

• Commercial vehicle drivers who violate traffic laws and cause secondary crashes involving wildlife.

If negligence contributed to the collision, injury victims may still have options to pursue compensation.

Injured After Hitting a Deer? Call Shaw.

No one plans to hit a deer — and when negligence makes a dangerous situation worse, the aftermath can be overwhelming. If you or a loved one was injured in a deer-related collision caused by someone else’s negligence anywhere in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency Treatment

• Medical Bills

• Lost Wages

• Property Damage

• Pain and Suffering

• Wrongful Death

• And More

We can help you find out for free.

Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 today or use our live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our personal injury attorneys.
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We look forward to serving you.