Spring has sprung but motorists are being warned to be extra vigilant as fawning (birthing) season leads to a 45% surge in deer vehicle collision claims, according to Zurich’s claims data. 63 claims were recorded in April and May 2024 compared to a low of just 11 collisions recorded in January and February 2025. The average cost of a claim in 2024 was £4,317. Due to rising car part and labour costs for repairs, this figure looks set to increase by over £250 in 2025 to £4,584.

According to the Forestry Commission, the UK’s deer population has rapidly increased over the last 40 years and is currently estimated at around 2 million. This is the highest number of deer seen in 1,000 years, which may explain the increase in deer vehicle collisions in the past few years.

Not only can a collision be costly, but hitting a deer can also be extremely dangerous and very distressing for both drivers and passengers. Research indicates that over 74,000 deer-vehicle collisions occur every year, with the majority sadly resulting in the deer’s death.

Top deer tips for drivers:

1. Beware during the peak danger periods between sunset and midnight and just before and after sunrise when deer are most active.

2. Drive with caution and be on the lookout for deer – if you see one, you’re likely to see more.

3. Use full-beam lights when there is no opposing traffic. But, if you see a deer or any other animal on the road, dim your headlights so you don’t startle them. This can cause them to freeze rather than leave the road.

4. If you hit a deer, keep yourself and anyone with you as safe as you can and park your car in a safe place with hazard lights on.

5. Call the RSPCA’s 24-hour emergency line (0300 1234 999) if the animal is injured. Be cautious approaching an injured animal, as it might scratch or bite

6. Call an ambulance if human injuries warrant it and call the Police.

7. If you spot an injured deer on the road, pull over at a safe place and call the police – give as precise a location as you can.

8. Do not try to assist or move the deer as this can put you in danger.

9. If your car is damaged, record the evidence, seek details from any witnesses, and report it to your insurer as soon as possible.

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This article was adapted from an article by Zurich which can be found here.