Oh Dear! I Hit A Deer! Now What?

7/21/2019 (Permalink)

A leisurely drive through a beautiful winding forest at sunset can quickly turn into a negative experience if a deer darts out in front of your vehicle, which is not an uncommon experience.  In fact, during certain times of the year, your chances increase dramatically of encountering a deer along the side of the road, and unfortunately, their quick movements often result in injury to them and damage to our vehicle.  Here is some useful information on how to avoid deer/vehicle encounters and what to do if you do accidentally hit a deer. 

Deer car crashes are most common in October, November and December, which is mating season for deer, which means they tend to roam more.  So be extra vigilant when you are driving in areas where they may populate during these months of the year.  Also, deer come out to feed at dawn and dusk, and the lower visibility at this time during the day makes it more difficult for drivers to see them.  Be on the look out for them at this time of the day also.  And remember if you see one on the side of the road, there are likely others nearby.

If you do hit a deer and it appears to only be injured, do not attempt to move it yourself.  Note the location and contact your local wildlife rescue group immediately.  If the animal is dead and your car is driveable, DO NOT run your car through a car wash.  This will only cause the carcass of the animal to get pushed further into the undercarriage of your vehicle.  In this situation, you should call a professional cleaning service, like the experts at SERVPRO of Vacaville.  We have firsthand experience in the cleaning and care of your vehicle and can deliver your car back to you “Like it never even happened.”  While we hope this situation never happens to you, if it does you can be sure that we are on-call ready to help if the need arises.  Call us at (707) 724-8977 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.