Deer Alert: Motorists Warned of Increased Accident Risk Due to Spring Migration

Motorists need to be vigilant of deer on the roads during late spring, as the annual migration of deer to new locations for foraging poses a significant risk of accidents. According to Zurich insurer, about 74,000 car accidents involving deer happen each year in Britain, with an average cost of £4,317 per incident. These accidents are often traumatic and costly, with some cases resulting in total damages of over £15,000, as experienced by local resident Mat Barker.

Key Takeaways:

• There is a 45% rise in accidents involving deer between April and May, highlighting the increased risk during late spring.
• Deer accidents result in significant costs, with an average of £4,317 in damages per incident.
• Comprehensive insurance typically covers damage caused by accidents involving animals, but third party only or third party, fire and theft insurance generally do not.
• Motorists are advised to look out for deer warning signs and speed limit signs, and dim their headlights if they spot a deer to avoid startling them.
• Injured deer on the road should be reported to the police on 101, and motorists can also call the RSPCA 24-hour emergency phone line on 0300 1234 999.
• Mat Barker, a 50-year-old account manager from Welney, Norfolk, has hit deer twice in the past four years, causing over £15,000 in damage to his car.
• Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC, emphasizes the importance of being aware of deer in the countryside or on the edge of towns.

Statistics:

• 74,000 car accidents involving deer happen each year in Britain (Zurich insurer).
• Average cost of £4,317 per deer accident (Zurich insurer).
• Total damages of over £15,000 from two accidents experienced by Matt Barker (Mat Barker's account).
• 50% increase in number of deer near roads during late spring (implied by the migration of new fawns).

Sources:

• Zurich insurer
• Mat Barker
• Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC