W. Va. Commissioner Warns of Impact with Wildlife

West Virginia Insurance Commissioner, Jane Cline, announced recently that along with the fall season comes an increase in the number of auto related accidents involving deer and other wildlife. This increase occurs during the months of October, November and December, which coincides directly with both hunting and mating season.

The Insurance Commission recently conducted a study of the top auto insurers with 5 percent or more of the state automobile insurance market. The study estimates that over 28,000 deer-vehicle claims were presented last year to insurers of West Virginia drivers.

“Based on information from the study, the average automobile insurance claim resulting from deer-vehicle crashes is over $1,600” Cline said. “The cost of comprehensive claims paid out by insurers annually is estimated at over $44 million.”

Cline said motorists are urged to be aware of deer crossing signs, stay alert, and always wear a seatbelt. Also, deer tend to move in groups, so if a driver sees one there are likely to be more.