No matter how careful you are on the road, animal collisions can happen. Deer can be especially dangerous since they’re a larger animal.  If you’ve hit a deer and are uninjured, you’ll still need to follow a few basic procedures to keep yourself safe until assistance arrives. Here’s what to do if you hit a deer on the road.

Pull Over

Pull over to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. Stay in your vehicle if you can, especially if you’re on the highway or a busy road. If you have road flares or markers and its safe to do so, you may want to put them out so that other drivers can avoid the dead or injured animal. Deer tend to be most active during the evening and at dusk, so it’s best to stay put in your car, as other motorists might have difficulty seeing you on the road.

Call the Police

Call the police and let them know about the incident. A deer blocking the road can be a danger to other motorists, and getting the police there sooner rather than later will help avoid additional accidents. You may also need to file a police report if there was damage to property or injuries resulting from the crash.

Document the Accident

When you have the opportunity, document the accident. If you have a phone handy, pictures of the damage will go a long way in helping you when dealing with your insurance provider. Once you have the accident documented contact your insurance provider and report the damage to your vehicle.

Don’t Assume Your Car Is Safe to Drive

Check your car before getting back on the road, don’t just assume it’s safe to drive. If your car is damaged to the point where it might be unsafe to drive,  you can contact a friend or family member to give you a ride and call for a tow truck to get your car off the road and into a garage.

Just as with any accident, your own safety and that of those around you is paramount. If you do hit a deer, don’t panic. Be sure to call authorities and wait for their arrival rather than trying to move the animal yourself or simply leaving it behind.

The road can be unpredictable even for the most careful drivers. Don’t get caught off guard in an emergency. Keep an emergency car kit on hand so you’re prepared for anything.