If you’ve spent any time driving in Wyoming, you’ve probably seen wildlife crossing signs along the road. While they can be easy to overlook, they serve as an important reminder of a very real risk: collisions with large animals like elk and moose.
In the Jackson area, wildlife-related accidents are unfortunately common, especially during dawn and dusk when animals are most active. Knowing what to do before and after an accident can help keep you safe and make the insurance process much smoother.
First, Are You Covered?
Many drivers are surprised to learn that hitting an elk, moose, deer, or other wildlife is generally covered under the comprehensive portion of an auto insurance policy.
Comprehensive coverage is designed to protect against losses that aren’t caused by a collision with another vehicle, including:
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Wildlife collisions
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Hail damage
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Falling objects
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Fire
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Theft
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Vandalism
If you only carry liability coverage, damage to your own vehicle after hitting an animal typically would not be covered.
Why Moose Are Especially Dangerous
While any wildlife collision can be serious, moose present unique dangers. An adult moose can weigh over 1,000 pounds and stands much taller than most vehicles. When struck, the body of the moose often comes through the windshield area rather than being pushed over the hood.
Because of their size and height, collisions with moose can result in severe vehicle damage and serious injuries.
What To Do Immediately After a Collision
If you hit an elk or moose:
1. Move to Safety
If possible, pull your vehicle off the roadway and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Check for Injuries
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and call 911 if anyone needs medical assistance.
3. Do Not Approach the Animal
Even an injured animal can be extremely dangerous. Keep a safe distance and wait for law enforcement or wildlife officials.
4. Contact Authorities
In Wyoming, it’s generally a good idea to notify local law enforcement. They can assist with traffic control, document the accident, and coordinate with wildlife officials if necessary.
5. Document the Scene
Take photos of:
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Vehicle damage
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The accident scene
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Road conditions
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Any visible injuries
This information can be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
Will Your Insurance Rates Go Up?
One of the most common questions we hear is whether a wildlife collision will cause insurance premiums to increase.
Because hitting an animal is generally considered a comprehensive claim rather than an at-fault accident, it is often treated differently than a traditional collision claim. However, every insurance company has its own underwriting guidelines, and claim history can affect premiums in different ways.
If you’re unsure how a claim may impact your policy, talk with your insurance agent before filing whenever possible.
Tips to Avoid Wildlife Collisions
While accidents can’t always be prevented, a few precautions can reduce your risk:
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Be especially alert at dawn and dusk.
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Slow down in posted wildlife crossing areas.
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Scan both sides of the roadway.
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If you see one animal, expect more to follow.
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Use high beams when conditions allow.
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Avoid swerving suddenly, which can lead to a more serious accident.
We’re Here to Help
Living in Wyoming means sharing the landscape with incredible wildlife. While seeing elk and moose is one of the many benefits of living here, it’s important to stay prepared when traveling our roads.
If you have questions about your auto insurance coverage or want to review whether you have comprehensive protection in place, our team is always happy to help.
Drive carefully, stay alert, and remember: when it comes to wildlife, slowing down can make all the difference.
