Deer Season in WNY: What You Should Know About Comp Claims (and Your Insurance Rate)
If you’re native to Western New York, you know what’s coming — chilly mornings, coffee before sunrise, and deer everywhere.
This time of year, we see an increase in deer-related insurance claims — comp claims. Short for comprehensive, which basically means anything that happens to your car that isn’t caused by another vehicle. Think falling trees, cracked windshields… and yes, deer collisions.
Let’s break down what really happens when you file one, how it can affect your insurance rate, and when you’re most likely to see deer on the move this fall.
What’s a Comp Claim, Really?
A comp claim is what you file when your car is damaged by something outside of your control — like weather, theft, vandalism, or an animal.
In this case, we’re talking about deer. When a deer runs into your car (or you hit one), that usually falls under comp coverage.
It’s different from an “accident” where you hit another car — those are handled under collision.
With a comp claim, your insurance helps pay for repairs once you meet your deductible. And while it’s not an at-fault situation, filing one can still affect your rate just a little, depending on your insurance company and where you live.
Why Rates Go Up (Even When It’s a Deer)
It doesn’t seem fair, you didn’t do anything wrong! But here’s why it happens.
When a lot of deer-related claims happen in a specific area, insurance companies start to see that ZIP code as higher risk. So even if you’ve never had a claim before, the overall number of comp claims in your area can nudge local rates upward.
And if you personally file a comp claim, it can sometimes lead to a small increase in your own rate at renewal, usually only a few percent, and often temporary.
The good news? Comp claims generally don’t raise your premium nearly as much as at-fault accidents.
When Deer Are Most Active (and Why That Matters)
Here’s the part most people don’t realize: deer aren’t randomly wandering all year. Their behavior changes dramatically in the fall because of two big things — hunting season and the rut.
That combination makes October and November the months when deer are most likely to run out into the road.
Here’s what that looks like for 2025 in New York:
Bow season: starts October 1st (Southern Zone)
Youth hunting weekend: October 11–13
Firearm season: November 15–December 7
Rut peak: roughly early to mid-November — when deer are most active and unpredictable
If you’re driving early in the morning or around dusk, especially in wooded areas like Route 242, 98, or anywhere near Ellicottville or Franklinville, slow down and stay alert. Most deer hits happen in those hours.
A Few Tips to Keep in Mind This Fall
Know your coverage.
If you’re not sure whether comp coverage is included on your policy — or what your deductible is — call us. We’ll check and walk you through it.
Think before filing small claims.
If the damage is minor (like a dented fender or cracked light), sometimes it’s cheaper to pay out of pocket instead of filing a claim that could raise your rate later.
Stay alert in deer-heavy areas.
If you see one deer, assume there are more. They travel in groups and tend to dart across after one another.
If you do hit a deer:
Pull over safely, turn on your hazards, and don’t approach the animal. Take pictures of the damage and scene, and call your insurance agent — we’ll help you through the next steps.
Ask questions before renewal.
Even if your rate changes slightly after a comp claim, we can help you explore other options. Some carriers are more forgiving than others when it comes to deer-related claims.
A Local Note from Ellen & the Team
We know what it’s like this time of year — busy mornings, dark commutes, and deer that seem to appear out of nowhere.
If you’ve had a run-in with one (or just want to make sure you’re covered before the season ramps up), reach out. We’re happy to review your policy, explain your options, and make sure you’re not paying more than you need to.
Because around here, fall isn’t just about hunting season, it’s about protecting what matters most on the road home.
