Hit a Deer? Here’s What Colorado Drivers Should Know

It can happen around Grand Junction in the blink of an eye — you’re driving up Hwy 65 toward Powderhorn when a deer darts across the road and you’re suddenly checking for damage.

Wildlife collisions are common in Western Colorado, but knowing what to do next can keep you safe, save money, and make the insurance process a lot easier.

Safety First: Stop, Assess, and Call for Help

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If you strike wildlife with your car in Colorado, the state patrol says you should pull over safely and stop. Turn on your vehicle’s hazard lights, and make sure all passengers are ok. Colorado Parks and Wildlife says not to approach the animal (deer or otherwise). It may kick or bolt. The right thing to do is to report the accident, even if the animal ran away.

If the animal is dead, blocking traffic, or has caused over $1000 in damage, you should call the Colorado State Patrol (Star 277). For less severe accidents, contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife at 303-297-1192.

Report It Right: What Colorado Law Requires

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As we just mentioned, even if the animal runs off, a wildlife collision is legally a crash in Colorado. C.R.S. §42-4-1606 (Colorado Revised Statutes) says the driver of the vehicle must report it. This will help if you need to file an insurance claim. Comprehensive coverage usually pays for animal damage in the Centennial State, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Document, Claim, and Prevent Future Collisions

If everyone inside your vehicle is ok, try to take a few photos of the scene. Did anyone else witness the accident? Save the case number and contact info of the responding officer. This information will be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim.

Remember, as you travel around Colorado, if a deer runs out in front of you, avoid swerving to prevent a collision. AAA says staying in your lane and braking firmly saves more lives in the long run.

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LOOK: Beware of the 12 Most Dangerous Animals in Colorado

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Gallery Credit: Wes Adams

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Several different animals found in Colorado are listed as "endangered" by the federal government and the Centennial State. We're taking a closer look at 19 of the animals in the gallery below considered endangered or threatened in Colorado.

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Source: How to Handle Hitting a Deer in Western Colorado

Filed Under: Colorado Wildlife, Colorado Roads + Highways

Categories: Colorado Local, Colorado Travel, Colorado News