Deer strikes are an unfortunate and common occurrence on highways, especially in rural areas like Hwy 51 and Hwy 177. These accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving drivers with little time to react. However, while the initial cause of an accident may be a deer running onto the road, the responsibility for the resulting damages and injuries may not always fall solely on the driver who hit the animal.
A deer-related accident is often a chain reaction, and multiple factors can contribute to the severity of the situation. Other drivers involved in the accident may play a larger role in the wreck’s consequences, even though they didn’t directly hit the deer. In many cases, the actions of another driver may make them liable for damages and injuries that result from a multi-car crash. In this blog post, we will explore how a deer strike can lead to a multi-car wreck on Hwy 51 or 177 and why another driver might still be at fault for the incident.
How Deer Strikes Cause Accidents 
When a deer suddenly enters the roadway, it can cause an immediate, unpredictable situation for drivers. The deer might run out in front of a vehicle, forcing the driver to react quickly to avoid hitting the animal. Depending on the driver’s response, the outcome can range from a minor fender-bender to a serious multi-vehicle collision.
In areas like Hwy 51 or 177, where wildlife is common, drivers need to be especially vigilant for animals crossing the road. However, even the most cautious driver can be caught off guard when a deer suddenly darts in front of their car. This leads to several possible scenarios:
- Swerving to Avoid the Deer: A driver may try to avoid hitting the deer by swerving their vehicle. While the intent is to avoid harming the animal, the swerving action can cause the driver to lose control, potentially colliding with other vehicles nearby. This is often seen in multi-vehicle accidents that follow a deer strike.
- Braking Abruptly: If a driver is unable to avoid the deer and has no other option but to slam on the brakes, the sudden stop can create a hazardous situation for vehicles following behind. Drivers in the rear may not have enough time to react, leading to rear-end collisions or chain reactions involving multiple cars.
- Hitting the Deer: In some instances, the driver may hit the deer, resulting in damage to the vehicle. This can lead to additional crashes if the driver loses control or if the deer causes other cars to stop unexpectedly.
James V. Murray
Attorney with Over 40 Years Experience
Understanding Driver Liability After a Deer Strike
While the deer strike itself is often unavoidable, determining fault in the aftermath is a nuanced process. In cases where multiple vehicles are involved, liability may shift based on driver actions, including their ability to react appropriately to the situation. Here’s why another driver might still be held responsible, even if the initial trigger was the deer.
1. Failure to Maintain a Safe Following Distance
One of the most common causes of multi-car accidents following a deer strike is a failure to maintain a safe following distance. Drivers who tailgate or drive too closely to the vehicle ahead of them may not have enough time to react if the vehicle in front stops suddenly after hitting a deer or swerving to avoid the animal.
In such cases, the tailgating driver may be found liable for rear-end collisions. Regardless of the initial cause of the accident, maintaining a safe distance between vehicles is essential for preventing such incidents.
2. Speeding and Inadequate Reaction Time
Speed is another factor that significantly affects the outcome of a deer-related accident. A driver traveling above the speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions may not have sufficient time to react to a sudden stop or a swerving vehicle. In cases where a driver is speeding and rear-ends another vehicle after a deer strike, they may be held liable for the damages.
Even if the deer triggered the incident, speeding drivers may be considered at fault for not reacting in a way that could have prevented the crash. It’s essential for drivers to adjust their speed according to the road conditions, especially when driving in areas where deer are commonly seen.
Mr. Murray and his team were very professional and helpful throughout this process. As my case was very unique, I knew I was going to need a very specific and special team to help me through this. My wife and I prayed about it and God led us to Murray Law Firm. During the first consultation I requested he pray with me about it and he was quick to agree and that is when I knew we had made the right decision. They went above and beyond our expectations and won the case. I would highly recommend this firm.”
- Roger Buchanan
The Murray Law Firm worked wonders for me and my needs. James Murray along with his staff are so helpful, understanding, and answered all my questions and concerns. James was able to work his magic and get things done in such a timely manner. James even made his self available by phone after hours when I was in such need. He put not only mine but my whole families worries and concerns at ease. Would highly recommend James Murray to anyone searching for a very good attorney!"
- Tiara Rich
Jamie is personal yet professional. He can put you at ease and make you feel safe and secure. He will be at your side through this most difficult time in your life and will keep you informed about what is going on in your case and what you can expect. His staff is always ready and willing to do everything the can to help you. Highly recommended."
- Alicia Mayfield
3. Reckless or Negligent Driving
In some cases, a driver’s actions in response to a deer crossing the road may be reckless or negligent. For example, a driver who swerves excessively without regard for surrounding traffic could cause a crash involving multiple vehicles. Drivers who do not exercise caution or who take unnecessary risks during a deer-related incident may be found at fault for the damages that follow.
Even though they didn’t directly hit the deer, their failure to exercise due care can contribute to the severity of the accident. In such cases, a driver may be liable for the damages caused by their reckless behavior.
Contributory Factors in Multi-Car Wrecks
In many multi-car accidents following a deer strike, the actions of several drivers can contribute to the chain of events that lead to the crash. These contributing factors can make it more difficult to pinpoint fault, as several drivers’ actions can interact to escalate the accident. For instance:
- Evasive Actions: A driver who swerves to avoid hitting the deer might cause a pile-up if they lose control. This could make the driver who was initially avoiding the animal partly responsible for the resulting accident. However, the drivers involved in the pile-up may also share responsibility if they were not driving defensively or did not maintain a safe following distance.
- Brake Failure or Sudden Stops: If one driver stops suddenly after a deer strike, this may cause the vehicles behind them to rear-end them or crash into each other. In such cases, the driver who stopped suddenly could be partially responsible for not taking proper precautions to avoid an accident. The drivers involved in the rear-end collision may also share liability if they were tailgating or speeding.
Related Videos
Personal Injury Representation
Car Accident Representation
Legal and Insurance Implications
When determining who is at fault for an accident caused by a deer strike, both legal and insurance factors come into play. For instance:
- Insurance Companies: After an accident, insurance companies will assess the circumstances surrounding the crash and may assign liability based on the drivers’ actions. If another driver’s behavior contributed to the accident, they could be held liable for damages, even if the deer initiated the chain of events. This means that even if the deer was the primary cause, the insurance policy of the responsible driver may be held accountable for the damages to all parties involved.
- Comparative Fault: In some states, the concept of comparative fault is applied. This means that liability for the accident may be divided among the involved parties according to the degree of their responsibility. If one driver’s actions caused the multi-car wreck after a deer strike, they may be assigned a higher percentage of fault, while the other drivers may share a smaller portion of the liability.
- Legal Action: If the insurance companies cannot reach a fair settlement, the drivers involved may need to take legal action. In these cases, a personal injury attorney can help gather evidence, consult accident reconstruction experts, and argue the case in court to ensure that the driver responsible for the damages is held accountable.
What You Should Do After a Deer-Related Multi-Car Accident
If you’ve been involved in a multi-car wreck caused by a deer strike, follow these steps to protect your rights and ensure you are compensated for any damages or injuries:
- Call the Authorities – Always report the accident to the police. They will create an official report documenting the events leading up to the crash. This report will be vital when determining fault and filing insurance claims.
- Document the Scene – Take photographs of the accident scene, including damage to all vehicles, skid marks, and any evidence of the deer strike. This documentation can serve as valuable evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, it’s essential to seek medical attention after an accident. Injuries may not always be immediately apparent, and prompt treatment will ensure that any hidden injuries are diagnosed early.
- Consult an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer – If you’ve been involved in a multi-car accident, it’s important to consult an attorney who specializes in car accidents. They can help you understand your rights, assess the extent of damages, and navigate the legal process of filing a claim or lawsuit.
While a deer strike may be the initial trigger for a multi-car wreck on Hwy 51 or 177, the actions of other drivers can contribute significantly to the outcome of the incident. Whether due to failure to maintain a safe following distance, speeding, or reckless driving, another driver’s actions may still make them liable for the damages caused in the aftermath of a deer strike. If you’ve been involved in such an accident, it’s crucial to seek the help of an experienced attorney to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.
For personalized legal advice, contact Murray Law Firm today for a free consultation. Our team can help guide you through the complexities of determining fault and securing the compensation you deserve.