- October 31, 2014
- Car Accidents
- Personal Injury
Being involved in a deer crash is not uncommon in the State of Michigan. More often than not, you or your loved one may be driving along a road or highway when a deer runs out in front of your vehicle and you hit the deer while driving.Not only may the accident by costly as far as your vehicle damage or medical bills, but for many the accident can be deadly. Serious injuries and death from a car accident with a deer is unfortunately not uncommon. In fact, in 2013, 12 people were killed in a Michigan deer car accident and another 1,200 were injured.
Where Do Michigan Deer Car Accidents Occur Most?
While vehicle-deer crashes are a year-round problem in Michigan, spring and fall are the most common seasons in which a car accident may occur. According to the Insurance Institute of Michigan, more than half of all car-deer crashes occur in southern lower Michigan. In 2013, the five counties with the most vehicle-deer crashes were:
- Oakland County (1,801)
- Jackson County (1,480)
- Kent County (1,447)
- Lapeer County (1,229)
- Montcalm County (1,073)
In fact, in Michigan in 2013, there were 49,205 reported car-deer crashes. This amounts to one car-deer accident every nine minutes.
Avoid Deer-Car Crashes in Michigan
According to the Michigan State Police, ways you can avoid a car accident with a deer this year include:
- Stay aware, awake and sober;
- Be especially alert during the spring and fall seasons;
- Be aware of signs that are placed at known deer crossing areas to alert you of the possible presence of deer;
- Deer are herd animals and frequently travel in single file. If you see one deer cross the road, chances are there are more waiting;
- Do not rely on gimmicks, flashing your high-beam headlights or honking your horn to deter deer;
- Don’t swerve, brake firmly, stay in your lane, hold onto the steering wheel and bring your vehicle to a controlled stop;
- Remember to always wear your seatbelt;
- Report the crash to the nearest police agency and your insurance agent.
Compensation After A Michigan Car Accident With Deer
At the personal injury law firm of Goodman Acker, one of the most frequently asked questions our auto accident attorneys receive in the spring and fall is “Do I have any legal rights if I was involved in an auto accident with a deer?” Many typically wonder if they have any rights to compensation since there was no other vehicle involved. Every case is different, however victims who suffer injuries may have rights and can generally collect compensation under the Michigan no-fault law. Under the Michigan no-fault law, a victim may be able to file a claim to receive compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, household services, attendant care benefits (in-home nursing care) and more.
It is in your best interest if you or your loved one hit a deer while driving in Michigan and suffer injuries that you call our law firm immediately to discuss your rights. One of our expert and qualified auto accident attorneys will discuss your case with you, explain your legal rights, and determine whether or not you have a no-fault insurance claim. For over 30 years, our law firm has been helping auto accident victims obtain the no-fault benefits they are entitled to from their insurance companies. We can do the same for you. Call today at (248) 286-8100. The advice you will receive is free and of-no obligation. Best of all, we will represent you, should you decide to file a claim, under a No Win, No Fee promise which means there are no costs or fees whatsoever until we win or settle your claim.