South Jersey is known for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife, including a large deer population. While spotting a deer might be exciting, it can quickly turn dangerous when they enter the road, causing serious auto accidents.
Unfortunately, deer-related collisions spike during fall and winter, especially at dawn and dusk. Here’s what to do if you’re involved in a deer-related auto accident in South Jersey.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Deer Collision
If you’ve hit a deer, it’s essential to stay calm and follow these steps to ensure your safety:
- Pull Over Safely: Turn on your hazard lights and pull over to a safe location, preferably on the side of the road. Avoid standing near oncoming traffic, and be cautious of other vehicles.
- Check for Injuries: Assess whether you or any passengers are injured. Even if injuries aren’t immediately apparent, some might develop later, such as whiplash or concussions.
- Report the Accident: Contact local law enforcement to report the incident, especially if there’s significant damage or the deer is blocking the road. In New Jersey, you’re required to report accidents that result in more than $500 in property damage or if someone is injured.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the road conditions, and the deer if possible. This documentation can be useful for insurance purposes or in case you decide to pursue a legal claim later on.
- Do Not Approach the Deer: Injured or frightened deer can be dangerous and unpredictable. Keep your distance and wait for authorities or animal control to handle the situation.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: After ensuring your safety and filing a police report, contact your insurance company to report the accident. New Jersey operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning your personal injury protection (PIP) will cover your injuries. However, you’ll still need to determine how to handle vehicle damage.
Why Deer Collisions Are Common in South Jersey
Deer-related auto accidents are particularly common in rural and suburban areas like South Jersey, especially during the fall mating season and in the early winter months. Deer are more active at dawn and dusk, times when visibility is low for drivers. Additionally, deer are often spooked by vehicle lights, which can cause them to dart unpredictably onto roads.
In New Jersey, drivers are advised to be especially cautious when driving in wooded or rural areas where deer are common. Pay attention to deer crossing signs, and be extra vigilant during peak times when deer are most active. It’s also a good idea to slow down if you see a deer, as they often travel in groups, meaning more could be nearby.
Legal Options After a Deer-Related Auto Accident
In some cases, deer-related accidents may involve more than just hitting the animal. For example, if another driver swerved to avoid a deer and caused an accident, you might have legal grounds to file a claim against that driver. This is where an experienced auto accident lawyer can be invaluable.
It’s important to remember that New Jersey’s no-fault insurance system primarily covers personal injuries after an accident, but property damage claims can still be complex. A skilled auto accident lawyer can help you navigate the intricacies of your case, particularly if another driver’s actions contributed to the accident or if you’re dealing with uncooperative insurance companies.
Preventing Deer-Related Accidents
While not all accidents are avoidable, there are some steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of a deer collision:
- Be Aware of Peak Deer Activity: Deer are most active during dusk and dawn, particularly in the fall and early winter. Slow down and stay alert during these times, especially in rural or wooded areas.
- Use High Beams When Possible: If you’re driving at night in an area where deer are common, use your high beams when there’s no oncoming traffic. This will help you spot deer earlier and give you more time to react.
- Honk Your Horn: If you see a deer near the road, honk your horn to scare it away. Deer often freeze in the presence of headlights, and using your horn may prompt them to move.
- Brake, Don’t Swerve: Swerving to avoid a deer can lead to more severe accidents, such as collisions with other vehicles or trees. If a collision is unavoidable, it’s safer to brake firmly and hit the deer rather than swerving.
High-Risk Roads for Deer Sightings in South Jersey
In Linwood, NJ, deer sightings are common near the wooded areas along Shore Road and Patcong Creek. These regions have dense vegetation, providing a natural habitat for deer. In Atlantic City, drivers should stay cautious near the outskirts of town, especially along the Black Horse Pike, where deer often wander from marshy areas.
In Egg Harbor Township, Ocean Heights Avenue and Somers Point-Mays Landing Road are particularly known for high deer activity, especially during dawn and dusk when deer are most active.
When to Contact an Auto Accident Lawyer in New Jersey
If you’ve been involved in a deer-related auto accident, especially one involving another driver, seeking legal advice is crucial. A serious injury—such as permanent disfigurement, fractures, loss of a body part, or significant disability—meets New Jersey's legal threshold for filing a personal injury claim. New Jersey law also allows for lawsuits if injuries cause substantial interference with your normal daily activities. Victims generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim.
Deer-related accidents can be complex, particularly when multiple vehicles are involved or insurance companies dispute claims. An experienced auto accident lawyer can help assess the details of your case, manage the paperwork, and ensure that you explore all available legal options.
Contact The Law Offices of Richard A. Stoloff: Your New Jersey Auto Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a deer-related auto accident, don’t navigate the legal complexities alone. The Law Offices of Richard A. Stoloff, your trusted auto accident attorney, is ready to help you with your case.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Call (609) 957-6810 discuss your legal options and take the first step toward resolving your case.
Disclaimer: The information provided is not legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.