CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Deer mating season is underway in the Carolinas and AAA is warning people about the dangers of deer crashes during winter.
AAA of the Carolinas says the months of October through December account for more than half of animal-vehicle crashes. According to NCDOT data, there was an increase of 1,700 crashes involving animals last year, with the total number climbing to 21,835. Of those, 90% are assumed to be deer. In South Carolina, state agencies tallied more than 4,600 crashes involving deer in 2022.
The best way to avoid these crashes is to stay off the roads when deer are most active. AAA says deer are most active between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. If you see a deer in the road, experts say hit the brakes and use your horn. Don't try to swerve, and if you do hit a deer, get your car to a safe location as quickly as possible.
“Colliding with a deer is not only dangerous, but also increasingly expensive even in a minor crash,” Tiffany Wright, a spokesperson for AAA of the Carolinas, said. “New technology, like cameras and windshield sensors drive up the cost of repairs, which makes it more imperative to double-check your insurance coverage.”
AAA data shows the average estimated claim for a hitting a deer in North Carolina and South Carolina is about $4,300, and that number is going up to cover expensive automotive technology. Some insurance plans don't even cover some newer technology, like windshield sensors and cameras, so many drivers are paying out of pocket.
If a motorist does hit a deer, they're urged to call the police and put the vehicle's hazard light's on regardless of how well-lit an area is. Also, try to move the vehicle out of the road to a safe location if possible. AAA also recommends calling an insurance agent as soon as possible.