Understanding Wildlife Collisions and Insurance Claims in Ontario: What You Need to Know

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Wildlife Collisions: What You Need to Know

Wildlife collisions are an unfortunate and common occurrence on various Ontario highways and rural roads. From Northern Ontario to Muskoka, to highways outside Ottawa and rural roads outside St Catharines and Welland, these car accidents are frequent. From moose and deer to smaller animals like raccoons and skunks, wildlife car accidents can be sudden, dangerous, and can cause serious injuries to both drivers and passengers. While vehicle accidents involving other cars are so common drivers understand the process for insurance claims, wildlife collisions often leave drivers confused as to what their next steps should be. This blog will clearly illustrate what you need to know about wildlife collisions and your ability to file an insurance claim, ensuring you’re well-informed if the worst happens.

The Prevalence of Wildlife Collisions in Ontario

Ontario is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and with numerous cars traveling on rural highways that crisscross through forested areas, it’s not uncommon for drivers to encounter animals alongside and crossing heavily travelled roads. According to reports, thousands of wildlife collisions occur across Ontario each year, leading to serious injuries and, occasionally fatalities. Large animals like deer and moose can cause significant damage to vehicles, and the impact and surprise of these collisions can sadly lead to severe injuries for drivers and passengers.

Because of the high risk in certain areas, it’s important for Ontario drivers to know their rights when it comes to insurance claims after experiencing a car accident with wildlife. Many drivers are unaware that their auto insurance policies may cover such incidents, which can make a major difference in handling the financial and medical aftermath of the collision. Understanding your rights is key to dealing with the aftermath of a serious car accident with wildlife.

Can You File an Insurance Claim for a Wildlife Collision in Ontario?

Yes, you can file an insurance claim if you’ve been injured or your vehicle is damaged after hitting wildlife. However, there are important details that need to be understood to determine what your insurance will cover, based on the type of policy you have.

1. Comprehensive Coverage

For car accidents where wildlife is hit by a vehicle, the most relevant part of your auto insurance policy is your comprehensive coverage. This protects you from damages that occur from incidents other than collisions with another vehicle, most likely including accidents with wildlife. If you hit a deer, moose, or any other animal, comprehensive coverage is typically what will cover repairs to your vehicle.

2. Collision Coverage

In many car accident cases, if you swerve your automobile to avoid hitting wildlife and end up crashing into a tree, pole, fence, or another car, your insurance’s collision coverage may apply. Be aware that this can be tricky, as your insurance company may argue that the collision was avoidable if you could have maintained control of your car.

3. Liability Coverage

If you were hurt in a car accident involving wildlife, your liability coverage may not apply directly. This is because this part of your insurance usually covers damages you cause to others. However, Ontario has no-fault insurance, meaning your insurance company will cover your medical expenses and rehabilitation costs, regardless of who or what caused the collision.

What to Know About Injuries from Wildlife Collisions

Wildlife collisions in Ontario can often lead to serious injuries. When a vehicle strikes a large animal, such as a deer or moose, at high speeds, the impact can cause the animal to crash through the windshield or roof of the car. This can result in devastating consequences, such as whiplash, broken bones, concussions, traumatic brain injuries, soft tissue damage, and cuts or lacerations.

Most people are unaware that if you were injured in a wildlife collision, you may be entitled to compensation from your insurance. This compensation may cover medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle repair or replacement.

Steps to Take After a Wildlife Collision

If you’ve been involved in a collision with wildlife, follow these steps when filing an insurance claim:

  1. Prioritize Safety: Pull over to the side of the road, if possible, and turn on your hazard lights. Stay in your vehicle, as approaching the animal can be dangerous.
  2. Check for Injuries: Assess your own condition and that of any passengers. Call 911 if there are injuries.
  3. Report the Collision: Report the accident to the police, especially if the damage exceeds $2,000 or someone was injured.
  4. Document the Scene: Take photos of the damage and the animal involved to assist with your insurance claim.
  5. Contact Your Insurance Company: Provide all relevant details, including the police report and photos of the damage.
  6. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: A lawyer can help ensure you receive proper coverage and protect your rights.

How Can You Prevent Wildlife Collisions?

While some wildlife collisions are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:

  • Look for wildlife crossing signs, especially during dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
  • Drive carefully in areas known for wildlife, and slow down.
  • Use your high beams at night when there’s no oncoming traffic to spot animals from a distance.
  • If a collision is unavoidable, it’s often safer to hit the animal than to swerve.

Protect Yourself with the Right Insurance Coverage and Legal Support

Wildlife collisions are common in Ontario and pose a serious risk to drivers. Knowing how to handle the aftermath of an accident can make a significant difference in your recovery and financial situation. Comprehensive insurance coverage and Ontario’s no-fault insurance system can help cover the costs of vehicle repairs and medical expenses.

At Bergel Magence Personal Injury Lawyers, we have over 50 years of experience helping clients with insurance claims after serious accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a wildlife collision, contact us today to learn about your options for filing a claim. We’re here to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call Bergel Magence at 416-665-2000 or visit www.bergellaw.com.

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