Deer are common in both rural and suburban areas. Some even make their way into more urban settings by following waterways or greenbelts through the city. While enjoyable to watch from afar, they can pose a major hazard if they step into the road. Knowing what to do if you hit a deer can come in handy during this situation. The following tips can help.

Tip #1: Practice Basic Accident Safety

Move off the road if possible and turn on your hazard lights. Stay in your vehicle, especially if you are in area with low visibility, such as on a curving mountain road. Contact local emergency services first, since they will need to arrive to remove the animal from the roadway if it is in a hazardous location or impeding traffic.

Tip #2: Don't Approach the Animal

It may be tempting to get out of the vehicle to check on the deer, especially if it seems to be moving. This can be a major mistake. An injured or frightened animal, even one as normally timid as a deer, may strike out and cause you a major injury. In some cases a deer is only has minor injuries or is knocked unconscious, which means it may suddenly leap up when it comes to. It is better to allow emergency services to arrive and take care of the deer in whatever way is fit.

Tip #3: Call Your Insurance Agent

Once you are parked safely and have contacted the necessary emergency services, contact your insurance agents 24-hour emergency number. They will begin the claims process. Some insurance companies will also send out a tow truck, if necessary, so you will not need to worry about contacting one on your own and filing the claim paperwork for reimbursement if you have a towing package as part of your policy.

Tip #4: Begin the Documentation Process

You can begin documenting the accident for the claims process as you wait for services to arrive. Take photographs of any injuries you or your passenger sustained. If it is safe to do so, take pictures of the vehicle damage and the deer (from a distance). Otherwise, stay in the car until the emergency services arrive and declare it safe to exit the vehicle, and then take photographs of the accident damage and deer evidence. Remember to keep all receipts, police reports, and medical documentation so you can turn them in with your claim.

Contact an insurance agent for more information. For auto insurance, contact a company such as H and M Insurance.