Physical damage insurance is divided into two separate coverages, comprehensive and collision. Both usually have deductibles.

A deer crash is covered as a comprehensive claim if there is evidence of direct contact with the deer. Otherwise, the damage is covered through collision. A comprehensive claim generally does not affect premium. It may, however, impact the policy's claim-free discount. A surcharge is likely after a collision loss. Check with a local auto insurance agent for details.

Again, a liability-only policy does not cover insured vehicle damage. Liability insurance is required by law and pays when the policyholder is legally responsible for another person's crash-related damages. The owner must pay for deer-related crash damage out-of-pocket in this situation. 

It's important to be familiar with policyholder duties after a loss. Among the requirements:

• If you have appropriate coverage, report the loss to the local agent or company representative as soon as possible.
• Check your deductible. The comprehensive deductible applies if you hit the deer. The collision deductible applies if you swerve to miss the deer and hit something else.
• Cooperate with the adjuster's claim investigation. Insurance adjusters are tasked with confirming insurance coverage applies, assessing damage, determining how the crash occurred, and authorizing the claim settlement. Providing credible, detailed information will speed up the settlement process.