Wildlife hits and collisions are an unfortunate reality for many Montana drivers. With stretches of open highways and abundant deer and elk populations, animal-related crashes are very common, especially during dusk and dawn. Knowing what to do immediately after an animal collision can help you and your family stay safe, comply with state law and protect your insurance rights.
1. Do not panic and evaluate the situation
After hitting an animal, slow down, steer to the side and turn on your hazard lights once you stop safely. After you pull over, check for injuries and call 911 right away if anyone is hurt. Even without injuries, Montana law requires you to report any crash involving death or more than $1,000 in property damage, so contact local law enforcement.
2. Protect yourself and anyone with you
Do not approach or attempt to move the wounded animal, especially a full grown deer and elk. These animals may trash when injured, posing a serious risk to you and other bystanders. For your safety, stay inside your vehicle if possible specifically at night on rural highways. To prevent any further accidents or crashes, consider:
-
Turning on interior and hazard lights to alert other drivers
-
Setting up reflective triangles or flares to mark your vehicle
-
Staying at a safe distance from traffic while waiting for the authorities
Making yourself visible and exercising caution helps prevent further harm until help arrives.
3. Document the scene of the accident
Accurate and proper documentation can support your comprehensive insurance claim and potentially protect you from any disputes later. You can use your phone or any other mobile device with a camera to capture the following:
-
The accident location and visible damage to your vehicle
-
Skid marks, debris and any identifiable animal remains
-
Driver information and license plate from any witness or involved motorists
If an officer responds to the scene, you can request a copy of the crash report or at least note the report number, to use as reference for your insurance claim.
4. Notify your insurance company
Most comprehensive auto policies cover damage from animal crashes or collisions, even if no other vehicle was involved in the accident. To give yourself a better chance of receiving coverage, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible and be ready to provide the evidence like photos, the crash report number and event descriptions. It is also crucial that you stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault about what happened.
5. Understand the state’s wildlife salvage rules and regulations
Montana law allows drivers to salvage road-killed elk and deer under certain conditions. However, this is only possible after you obtain a free permit from the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks within 24 hours of the collision. Without this permit, it is illegal to remove the animal and is an illegal possession of wildlife.
When nature crosses your path
Montana’s open roads bring charm and risk at the same time, if you ever face a wildlife collision, always remember that your safety comes first. The law always requires transparency and preparation can make your claim and recovery much faster.