It’s no secret that Wisconsin drivers share the road with plenty of deer, especially during fall and
early winter. Unfortunately, deer-related car accidents are incredibly common across the state,
often leading to serious injuries and expensive vehicle damage.
If you’ve been hurt in a deer-related crash, here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your rights after a collision.
Deer Accidents Happen Fast
Deer often run across the road unexpectedly, and even the most cautious drivers may not have
time to react. These accidents are especially common:
• At dawn or dusk, when deer are most active
• In rural areas or near wooded regions
• During mating season (October–November), when deer are on the move
Hitting a deer is often unavoidable. However, accidents involving deer can also occur because of
another driver’s actions, such as not paying attention, swerving into oncoming traffic, speeding,
or following too closely.
What to Do Right After the Crash
If you’re involved in a deer-related car accident:
1. Pull over safely and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Call 911 if anyone is injured.
3. Document the scene with photos of your car, the road, and the surroundings.
4. Exchange information if another vehicle was involved.
5. Get medical attention. Even if you feel okay, some injuries aren’t immediately obvious.
Can You File an Injury Claim
If your accident involved only you and a deer, you will likely rely on your own insurance
coverage (such as comprehensive coverage) for vehicle repairs and related medical expenses.
If another driver’s negligence contributed to the crash — for example, if someone:
• Swerved into your lane
• Was speeding or distracted
• Rear-ended you after you stopped for a deer
— then you may have a personal injury claim against that driver.
In these cases, you could seek compensation for:
• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
Wisconsin’s Comparative Fault Law
Even if you’re partly at fault (for example, if you were speeding), Wisconsin’s comparative
negligence law still allows you to recover damages, as long as you’re less than 51% responsible
for the accident.
Protect Your Rights After a Deer-Related Crash
Insurance companies often downplay these claims or try to shift blame. An experienced
Wisconsin personal injury attorney can investigate what happened, determine who’s responsible,
and help you recover the compensation you deserve.