Hit a Deer in Illinois? What Your Insurance Covers and What to Do Next
October 29, 2026
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If you hit a deer in Illinois, the damage to your car is usually covered under comprehensive coverage, not collision. If you only carry liability, you’ll likely pay for repairs yourself. And if you swerve and hit a tree or another car instead, that’s usually a collision claim.
Now is peak season. More than 40% of Illinois deer crashes happen in October, November, and December, and November is the riskiest month.
Does car insurance cover hitting a deer?
- Comprehensive covers it. You pay your deductible, and the policy pays the rest.
- Collision covers swerving. Hitting something else to avoid the deer is usually collision.
- Liability doesn’t cover your car. It only pays for damage you cause to others.
Example (illustrative numbers only): $4,500 in damage after hitting a deer.
| Your coverage | You pay |
|---|---|
| Liability only | $4,500 |
| Comprehensive, $1,000 deductible | $1,000 |
| Comprehensive, $500 deductible | $500 |
What should you do after hitting a deer?
Pull over and turn on your hazards.
Call 911, especially if anyone is hurt or the deer is blocking the road.
Stay in your car. Don’t approach an injured deer.
Take photos of your car and the scene once it’s safe.
Call your agent to start your claim.
Do you have to report it?
Often, yes. Illinois requires a crash report if anyone is injured or if damage is over $1,500 ($500 if a driver is uninsured). Most deer hits pass that amount. If police don’t come to the scene, file a report with the Illinois State Police within 10 days.
Want to keep the deer? Illinois residents can, but you must report it to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources within 24 hours.
How can you avoid hitting a deer?
- Slow down at dawn and dusk. That’s when deer are most active.
- Expect more than one. Deer often travel in groups.
- Don’t veer for deer. Brake firmly and stay in your lane.
FAQ: Deer collisions in Illinois
Hitting the deer is usually comprehensive. Swerving and hitting something else is usually collision.
Will a deer accident raise my insurance?
A single comprehensive claim usually has little or no impact on your rates. Multiple claims can.
Do I need to call the police after hitting a deer in Illinois?
If anyone is hurt or damage is over $1,500, a crash report is required. Calling 911 is always a good idea.
Not sure if you have comprehensive coverage? Muir Insurance Group will review your auto policy and show you what we find. Call 847-550-9900 or visit muirinsurancegroup.com to talk with an agent in Lake Zurich, Streator, or Breese.