Date: November 29, 2002
For more information contact: Kyle Richmond, Public Information Officer, (608) 267-9336 or kyle.richmond@oci.state.wi.us

Madison, WI--Concern about Chronic Wasting Disease may have reduced the number of deer hunters in Wisconsin woods this autumn, increasing the deer crossing state roads. Deer-vehicle collisions are most frequent in October, November and December.

The state Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) is urging state residents to drive with even more caution and make sure they're aware of insurance that specifically covers car repair costs for accidents involving deer.

"The part of an auto insurance policy called 'comprehensive coverage' is what would pay for accidents between cars and animals," said Randy Blumer, Deputy Commissioner of Insurance. "'Collision insurance' covers other sorts of accidents, so we recommend checking to see if 'comprehensive coverage' is included in your policy."

The Declarations Page of an auto policy summarizes types of coverage included in it. Comprehensive or 'Other Than Collision' coverage pays for damage caused by hitting a deer, and damage from hail, theft or falling objects. It is optional.

Remember the tips for avoiding deer accidents:

• Be extra vigilant at dawn and dusk, the time of day when deer tend to travel.
• Scan the sides of the road.
• If one deer is present, more are likely to be nearby.
• If deer are sighted, flash headlights and honk the horn to scare them away. If deer are in the road, do not evade them with hard braking or swerving. If stopping isn't possible, it's better to hit a deer than cross the center line or leave the road.

The OCI's Consumer's Guide to Auto Insurance explains auto coverage types. To obtain a copy, contact the OCI at P.O. Box 7873, Madison, WI 53707-7873, send e-mail to ociinformation@wisconsin.gov, or call 1-800-236-8517, or see http://oci.wi.gov.