The Reality of Wildlife Collisions in Wyoming
Wyoming’s breathtaking scenery comes with an unavoidable risk — wildlife on the roads. From elk in Jackson Hole to mule deer near Casper and moose around Laramie, large animal crossings are common throughout the state.
According to the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT), thousands of wildlife-vehicle collisions occur each year, causing millions in property damage and numerous injuries. For many drivers, these incidents raise a critical question: Will my auto insurance cover the damage?
Comprehensive Coverage: The Key to Wildlife Protection
Most Wyoming drivers assume that all car accidents are covered under their standard policy, but that’s not entirely true.
Wildlife collisions fall under “comprehensive coverage,” not collision coverage.
Here’s the difference:
Collision Coverage: Pays for damage when your car hits another vehicle or object (like a guardrail or fence).
Comprehensive Coverage: Covers damage from non-collision incidents — such as deer or elk impacts, hail, theft, vandalism, or falling trees.
If you only carry liability insurance, you’ll have no protection for damage from hitting an animal. That’s why adding comprehensive coverage is especially important for Wyoming drivers.
How Common Are Deer and Elk Collisions in Wyoming?
Wyoming consistently ranks among the top states for wildlife-vehicle crashes due to its rural highways and abundant wildlife population.
High-risk areas include:
Teton County: Frequent elk and moose crossings, especially near Jackson and Grand Teton National Park.
Fremont and Sublette Counties: Mule deer and pronghorn antelope collisions during migration season.
Natrona and Albany Counties: High deer density and nighttime crossings along major roads.
Collisions can easily result in $3,000 to $6,000 in vehicle damage, depending on the animal’s size and speed of impact.
What to Do If You Hit a Deer or Elk
If a collision happens, follow these steps to stay safe and ensure your claim goes smoothly:
Pull over safely and turn on hazard lights.
Do not approach the animal — injured wildlife can be unpredictable.
Document the scene with photos and videos of your car and surroundings.
Call local law enforcement to file an official report — required by most insurers.
Notify your insurance company immediately with the details and documentation.
Wyoming insurers typically process wildlife-related claims under the comprehensive portion of your policy, subject to your deductible.
Reducing the Risk of Wildlife Collisions
Prevention is the best protection. When driving through Wyoming’s rural or forested regions:
Be especially cautious at dawn and dusk, when animals are most active.
Use high beams when possible to spot wildlife earlier.
Watch for road signs marking frequent crossing zones.
Slow down during migration seasons, especially in the fall.
Install deer whistles or collision avoidance systems in high-risk areas.
Even with caution, not all collisions are avoidable — which is why insurance coverage is so essential.
How Wildlife Damage Affects Insurance Rates
Filing a claim for wildlife damage typically does not count as an at-fault accident and often has less impact on your rates than a collision claim. However, frequent claims or high repair costs may still influence your future premiums.
To minimize increases:
Maintain a clean driving record.
Consider higher deductibles to keep premiums affordable.
Ask about safe driver or accident forgiveness programs offered by Wyoming insurers.
Final Thoughts: Stay Protected on Wyoming’s Roads
Wildlife collisions are a fact of life in Wyoming — but financial loss doesn’t have to be. By ensuring your auto insurance includes comprehensive coverage, you can protect your vehicle from costly repairs and drive confidently through Wyoming’s scenic landscapes.
Review your policy before migration season and speak with your insurance agent about additional coverage options tailored to your driving habits and region.