Each fall, drivers across Missouri and Arkansas face one of the most dangerous seasonal driving hazards: the deer rut. The rut — typically occurring in autumn — causes increased deer movement as animals search for mates, cross highways more frequently, and behave unpredictably.
If you commute on rural highways, wooded roads, or near farmland, understanding deer rut risks can help prevent serious accidents and costly insurance claims.
What Is the Deer Rut?
The deer rut is the annual breeding season. During this time:
- Deer are more active at dawn and dusk
- Bucks travel longer distances
- Animals cross roadways more frequently
- Deer often move in groups
- Behavior becomes erratic and unpredictable
If you see one deer cross the road, assume others are nearby. Many collisions happen when drivers slow for the first deer — only to strike a second moments later.
Why Deer-Related Accidents Increase in Fall
During rut season in Missouri and Arkansas:
- Visibility is reduced during shorter daylight hours
- Commuters drive during peak deer movement times
- Rural and semi-rural highways see heavy wildlife crossings
- Harvest activity and habitat changes shift deer travel patterns
Swerving to avoid a deer can actually increase the severity of an accident. Rollovers, ditch impacts, and collisions with trees or oncoming traffic often cause more damage than striking the animal itself.
What Should You Do If a Deer Is in the Road?
To reduce risk during deer season:
- Slow down in posted deer crossing areas
- Use high beams when safe and legal
- Stay alert during dawn and dusk
- Scan both sides of the roadway
- Brake firmly and stay in your lane if impact is unavoidable
Insurance and law enforcement professionals generally agree: braking in your lane is usually safer than swerving.
Does Auto Insurance Cover Deer Damage?
Many drivers are surprised to learn that deer collisions are not covered by every auto policy.
- Comprehensive coverage typically pays for deer-related damage.
- Liability-only policies do not cover damage to your vehicle.
In Missouri and Arkansas, deer-related claims are usually classified as comprehensive losses, which often do not count as at-fault accidents. However, deductibles still apply.
If you only carry liability coverage, you may be responsible for the full cost of repairs after a deer strike.
Why Fall Is a Good Time to Review Coverage
Before deer activity peaks, it’s wise to review:
- Whether you carry comprehensive coverage
- Your current deductible amount
- Rental reimbursement coverage
- Towing and roadside assistance
At MBG Insurance, we help drivers across Missouri and Arkansas evaluate their auto insurance coverage before seasonal risks increase. As an independent agency, we compare multiple carriers to ensure you’re properly protected without overpaying.
Final Thoughts
Deer rut season significantly increases accident risk each fall. Staying alert, driving cautiously, and carrying the right auto insurance coverage can protect both your safety and your financial well-being.
If you’re unsure whether your current policy covers deer-related damage, reviewing it before an accident happens can prevent expensive surprises.