Auto insurance in Columbia, SC, is designed to provide financial protection in the event of an accident. While most insurance policies cover damages to other vehicles and bodily injury expenses, what happens when you hit a deer? The experts at Michael Taylor Agency can help you determine the type of insurance you need to handle these unexpected situations.

Deer-Vehicle Collisions: A Common Occurrence

Hitting a deer in Columbia, SC, is more common than you might think. According to The State, nearly 6,000 deer-vehicle collisions occurred in South Carolina in 2022, and the numbers continue to rise. Despite efforts to stay vigilant or install products like deer whistles, these accidents can still happen. Deer can suddenly leap out of tall grass along highways, and deer whistles are not always effective.

Understanding Auto Insurance Coverage

Hitting a deer can result in thousands of dollars in damage, and smaller vehicles can even be totaled in a single accident. That’s where auto insurance becomes essential. However, it’s important to understand the type of insurance coverage you need to ensure you’re protected.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is the most common type of coverage and is often required by law. It covers damages to other people’s property and bodily injury. However, standard liability insurance does not provide coverage for accidents involving deer or other animals.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is an optional add-on that vehicle owners can purchase. It covers collisions that are not with another vehicle, such as hitting a deer or a stationary object like a telephone pole.

It’s important not to confuse comprehensive coverage with collision coverage. Collision coverage protects against accidents involving other vehicles but typically does not cover incidents involving animals or stationary objects.

Get the Coverage You Need

Ensuring you’re covered before an accident occurs is crucial. The professional representatives at Michael Taylor Agency can help you obtain the right coverage for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about your options. We proudly serve the Columbia, SC, area.