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Every year in Quebec, thousands of drivers are involved in collisions with wild animals. White-tailed deer, moose, bears, coyotes, or even small mammals can suddenly appear on the road without warning, especially at dawn, dusk, and during certain migration periods.
Beyond the fear and property damage, many drivers wonder: Am I covered by my auto insurance? And what steps should I take after the accident?
Here’s what you need to know.
Wild animals: a very real risk on our roads
Rural roads, forest roads, and even some highways pass through natural habitats where wildlife roams freely. In Quebec, collisions with white-tailed deer are among the most common, but accidents involving moose are often the most serious due to their imposing size.
A collision with a large animal can cause:
- Significant damage to the front of the vehicle
- Airbag deployment
- Loss of control of the vehicle
- Injuries to occupants
- In some cases, a total loss of the vehicle
Even at moderate speeds, the consequences can be severe.
What should you do immediately after a collision?
If you hit a wild animal, your priority must always be safety.
1. Safely stop your vehicle
If possible, pull over to the shoulder or to a safe location. Turn on your hazard lights so you are visible to other road users.
2. Check on the occupants
Make sure everyone on board is safe. If there are injuries, immediately contact emergency services by dialing 911.
3. Never approach the animal
Even if injured, a wild animal can be unpredictable and dangerous. Keep your distance and do not attempt to move it.
4. Contact the authorities if necessary
When dealing with a large animal such as a deer, moose, or bear, it is recommended that you notify the appropriate authorities so they can secure the area and handle the animal.
5. Document the situation
Take a few photos of the vehicle, the damage, and, if it’s safe to do so, the accident scene. These details may be helpful when filing your claim.
What type of insurance coverage applies to this kind of accident?
This is a question many drivers ask themselves.
The good news is that a collision with a wild animal is generally not considered a standard collision with another vehicle or a stationary object.
In most auto insurance policies, this type of event is covered by the coverage known as “non-collision or overturning risks”, often referred to as “non-collision accident” coverage.
This coverage includes:
- Collisions with wild animals
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Fires
- Certain natural phenomena
If you only have mandatory liability coverage, damage to your own vehicle will generally not be covered.
Does a collision with an animal affect your record?
In most cases, a collision with a wild animal is considered an event beyond your control.
This generally means the incident is not treated the same way as an at-fault accident. However, each insurer has its own risk assessment criteria.
Your broker can explain the potential impacts based on your driving record and insurance policy.
Should you avoid the animal at all costs?
Instinctively, many drivers try to swerve to avoid the animal.
However, this reaction can sometimes lead to much more serious consequences.
Veering out of your lane, hitting a tree or a pole, or crossing into oncoming traffic can cause a more serious accident than a direct collision with the animal.
Road safety experts generally recommend:
- Brake firmly without locking the wheels
- Maintain control of the vehicle
- Stay in your lane whenever possible
- Avoid sudden maneuvers
The safety of the occupants must always remain the priority.
How can you reduce the risk of a collision?
Although it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk, certain precautions can make a difference.
Be especially vigilant:
- At dawn and dusk
- During the fall months
In wooded areas - In areas marked by wildlife crossing signs
Reduce your speed
Driving at an appropriate speed gives you more time to react.
Use high beams when possible
Better visibility often makes it easier to spot animals sooner.
Be wary of groups
When a deer crosses the road, others often follow a few seconds later.
Your insurance broker is here to support you
After a collision with a wild animal, the process can seem stressful. It is precisely in these moments that an insurance broker becomes a valuable ally.
At Assurances Groupe Vézina, we take the time to explain your coverage, answer your questions, and assist you with your claim when the unexpected happens.
Because even when we can’t predict what might happen on the road, we can at least make sure we’re well protected.
Do you have questions about your auto coverage? Contact our team. We’ll help you clearly understand the coverage included in your policy and choose the options that best suit your needs.
