Pennsylvanian motorists know that without auto insurance is not an option for them, especially during October and November. Not only is coverage mandated, drivers also need it during the deer mating season when vehicle-deer crashes increase drastically. But safety experts tell motorists to be extra careful and not to take such crashes lightly since they can be costly both in physical and property damages.
Pennsylvania auto insurance providers are reminding motorists that collisions with deer can leave their vehicles undriveable. It could also lead to serious physical injuries and could cause death in some cases.
An independent carrier in Pennsylvania reported that it has received 243 claims for animal hit, majority of which are for collisions with deer. The average claim was $2,984, usually for repairs on the front end of cars and medical expenses to treat injuries. The lowest claim was $97 while the highest was $23,618.
While Walt Disney project deer as lovable animals, which in fact they are for most people, they can pose serious threats when they cross the road. As noted by Pennsylvania’s Game Commission, a grown male weighs in about 140 pounds during mating season, which starts in September. But they weigh heavier during regular seasons, averaging at 180 pounds. Its shoulders span 32 to 34 inches and can travel at 40 miles per hour for short distances. For longer intervals, it can maintain a speed of 25 miles an hour.
Experts say the possibility of running into something as big and swift is enough reason for motorists to stay alert and focused while on the road. They advise drivers to be very alert especially when travelling along rural highways and during times of lower visibility, adding that deers are very active during dusk. Game hunters also tell motorists that no guard rail, backyard fence, or hedge can stop a buck from bounding across the road. A buck running after a doe can clear objects that are 9 feet high and 25 feet wide, they warn drivers.
Last October, local authorities for Chester County have collected 432 road-kill deer, which mean the same number of motorists could have had their cars damaged on that period alone. County body shop owners say repairs for such crash range from $5,000 to $8,000, adding that vehicles brought to their shop usually sustain front and side damages.
Experts also warn motorists about relying on deer whistles, saying deer could not care less for those devices.
Meanwhile, auto insurance providers remind policyholders that their premium rates could go up with every claim they make so they have to be very careful while driving through Pennsylvania road, especially October through December.
