Hit a Coyote or Other Animal on a High Desert Road? What to Do Next

Coyotes, dogs, rabbits, and occasionally larger animals cross High Desert roads every day, especially around dawn and dusk. Out on Highway 18, Highway 247, and the open stretches of I-15, a collision with an animal can happen in a split second. Here is what to do next, and why even a "small" hit deserves a closer look.

At the scene

• Get safely off the road and turn on your hazard lights. Do not stop in a travel lane.
• Do not approach an injured animal. Injured animals can be dangerous. If a large animal is blocking the road, call 911 or the CHP.
• Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
• Look at the car before driving on: lights, coolant or other fluids leaking, warning lights on the dash, or a bumper dragging.
• Take photos of the damage and the location. They help with your insurance claim.

Is it covered by insurance?

In most auto policies, hitting an animal is covered under comprehensive coverage, not collision. Comprehensive often has a different, sometimes lower, deductible. If you swerved to avoid the animal and hit something else, such as a pole or another car, that is usually handled as a collision claim instead. Every policy is different, so check yours or call your agent.

Whichever coverage applies, you choose where your car is repaired. We handle the estimate and paperwork with your insurer; see insurance claim assistance.

Damage that hides behind the bumper

A cracked bumper cover is what you see. Behind it, an animal strike can also damage:

• Radiator, condenser, and cooling fans. A small leak can lead to overheating days later.
• Headlights and fog lights, including mounting tabs that crack and let lights sag.
• Bumper reinforcements and brackets that absorb impact and protect you in the next collision.
• Front sensors and cameras. Many newer cars have parking sensors, radar, or cameras in the bumper and grille. They can be knocked out of position.

That is why we take the front end apart to inspect it properly. If we find hidden damage, we document it and get it approved before repairing it. Learn more about collision repair and bumper repair.

Is it safe to keep driving?

If a warning light is on, fluid is leaking, a light is out, or something is dragging or rubbing a tire, do not drive it far. Have it towed. Otherwise, get it inspected soon. Send us photos and we will give you an honest opinion.

Lowering your risk

• Slow down at dawn and dusk, when animals are most active.
• Use high beams on empty rural roads when it is safe to do so.
• If an animal appears, brake firmly and stay in your lane. Swerving often causes worse crashes.

Hit an animal? Send us a few photos for a free estimate, or read our after-the-accident checklist.