January 25, 2025

What to Do if a Wildlife Vehicle Collision Happens?

Contact a Lansdale Car Accident Lawyer at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. for Legal Guidance After a Wildlife-Vehicle Accident

A wildlife-vehicle collision occurs when a vehicle strikes an animal, leaving drivers and passengers wondering what to do next. These incidents are more common in areas with high animal populations or near forests, fields, or water sources. Deer or smaller mammals frequently cross roadways, leading to accidents that can cause significant vehicle damage and pose safety risks to drivers and passengers.

Why Do Wildlife Vehicle Collisions Happen?

Wildlife collisions occur for several reasons:

  • Animals are often active during dawn and dusk, times when visibility for drivers is limited.
  • Many species migrate or move seasonally, increasing the likelihood of crossing roads.
  • Roads that cut through natural habitats or intersect with water sources also lead to higher collision rates.
  • Human factors, such as driving at high speeds, using poorly maintained headlights, or being distracted, can increase the risk of hitting an animal.
  • Weather conditions, including fog, rain, or snow, can further reduce visibility and reaction time.

What Should I Do Immediately After A Collision?

If a collision with an animal occurs, prioritize safety. Pull over to the side of the road, turn on hazard lights, and assess the situation. Avoid exiting the vehicle on a busy road or at night without being aware of your surroundings.

Check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately. Avoid approaching or handling the animal, as it may be alive, scared, or injured, posing a risk to your safety.

Contact local authorities, such as the police or animal control, to report the accident. They can remove the animal and document the incident. Depending on the animal’s size and the extent of damage, their report may be required for insurance claims.

How Should I Handle Vehicle Damage?

Inspect your vehicle for damage after a collision. Pay attention to visible signs like a cracked windshield, dented body panels, or a damaged grille. Mechanical damage, including leaks or misalignment, may not be immediately noticeable but can affect the safety of your vehicle.

If the vehicle is not safe to drive, call a towing service. While waiting, take photographs of the damage, the surrounding area, and any visible animal remains. These photos can serve as evidence for insurance claims or repairs. Contact your insurance company promptly to report the incident and begin the claims process.

Who Is Responsible For Wildlife Collisions?

Determining responsibility in a wildlife collision can be complicated. In most cases, collisions with wild animals are considered accidental, and the driver is not held legally at fault. However, if the collision involves a domestic animal (livestock or a pet), the animal’s owner may share some responsibility.

Insurance coverage for wildlife collisions varies by policy. Comprehensive auto insurance often covers damage caused by animal collisions, while liability-only policies may not. It is important to review your insurance terms to understand what is covered in the event of an incident.

What Are The Legal Implications Of A Wildlife Collision?

In some cases, hitting a protected or endangered species could require additional reporting or legal follow-up. Failing to report a collision with a large animal, like a deer, could lead to penalties in certain jurisdictions. If a wildlife collision results in injuries to passengers, other vehicles, or significant property damage, a legal investigation may follow.

Contact a Lansdale Car Accident Lawyer at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. for Legal Guidance After a Wildlife-Vehicle Accident

If you were involved in a wildlife-vehicle collision and need legal guidance, a Lansdale car accident lawyer at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. can help. For a free consultation, call our Philadelphia or King of Prussia, Pennsylvania office at 267-861-7100 or submit our online form. We serve clients throughout Philadelphia, Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, Chester County, and Norristown.