5/7/2024

Does car insurance cover hitting a deer?

It's a common concern for motorists: what happens if you hit a deer or another large animal while driving? The answer depends on the type of car insurance you have. Let's explore if and how auto insurance policies cover these types of incidents. To begin with, not every car insurance policy automatically covers damage caused by a collision with a deer. The coverage required depends on the specific type of insurance you have:

  1. Liability Insurance (WA-insurance): This basic form of car insurance, mandatory in the Netherlands, covers only damage to third parties. This means that if you hit a deer, the repair costs for your own car will not be covered by this insurance.
  2. Limited casco Insurance: A limited casco insurance, also known as WA+ insurance, provides broader coverage than the standard liability insurance. It often covers damage to your car caused by 'acts of nature', including collisions with animals like deer. Therefore, if you hit a deer and have damage to your own vehicle, you can claim repairs under your limited casco insurance.
  3. All-Risk Insurance: The most extensive coverage is provided by a All-Risk insurance, also known as All-risk insurance. In addition to covering damage to third parties and 'acts of nature', this insurance also includes damage to your own car from an animal collision. So, if you hit a deer and have All-Risk insurance, you are generally covered for the repair costs of your car.

However, it's important to note that each insurance policy can be different. Sometimes there may be exclusions or limitations, so it's wise to check your policy terms or speak directly with your insurer to understand exactly what is covered.So, what is the minimum you need to be covered for hitting a deer? A limited casco insurance is usually the minimum level of coverage that covers these types of incidents. This level of coverage provides a good balance between cost and protection against unexpected events like animal collisions.It's always wise to be aware of your car insurance coverage and ensure it fits your specific needs and driving conditions. While hitting a deer can be a frightening experience, it can be reassuring to know that your insurance can help you recover any resulting damages, provided you have the right coverage.

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