Auto Repair Tips: What to Do After an Accident Involving a Deer

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Oct 27, 2023 | auto repair

auto repair No matter how carefully you drive, there might be times when you accidentally hit a deer with your car or truck. It can be a startling experience, and it can cause serious damage to your vehicle. In this situation, it’s important to know what to do to get your auto repair process on the right track.

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Expert Auto Repair Tips

1. Ensure Safety for Everyone

Once the shock of the car accident in Knoxville TN has passed, try to move your vehicle to a safe place, like the side of the road. If your car can’t be moved and you can walk safely, step out of your vehicle and stay away from the road. Don’t touch the deer or try to help it. Even if it’s injured, a deer can be quite strong and may harm you accidentally.

Check on your passengers and see if the collision with the deer caused any other car accidents involving different vehicles. If it did, make sure to check on the other driver and their passengers too.

2. Contact the Authorities

Call the police and inform them about the deer accident and any injuries you might have. Give them your location details, or clear instructions on where to find you. If there are other vehicles involved, let the police know.

While waiting for the police to arrive, document the damage to your car and the scene. This includes taking photos of the deer if it’s still there. This information will be essential when you file an insurance claim. It’s crucial to stay at the scene, even if your car appears undamaged.

auto repair Leaving the scene of a car accident, even if it doesn’t involve other vehicles or property, is against the law in many places. Moreover, hidden damage to your vehicle might not be covered by your insurance if you leave the scene.

3. Contact Your Insurance Provider

Once the police have given you the go-ahead, call your insurance company. Let them know you hit a deer and that your vehicle is damaged. Ask for the insurance adjuster’s name and inquire where you should send photos and evidence of the accident. Find out what your policy covers and whether you can be reimbursed for rental car expenses while your vehicle is being repaired.

Don’t delay calling your insurance company after the accident. Waiting can hurt your claim and leave your car unusable for longer.

4. Seek Professional Auto Repair

Your insurance company will likely ask you to get an estimate for auto repair from a professional. Even if your vehicle seems fine or has only minor damage, it’s not a good idea to drive it to the mechanic yourself. Instead, arrange for a tow truck to take your car to the repair shop.

The collision expert in Knoxville TN will assess the damage, including any hidden structural issues that you might not notice. It’s important to avoid trying to fix any body damage yourself, as this could complicate your insurance claim.