With migrating and mating season occurring between October and December, the chances of a single-vehicle accident involving a deer or other large animal just went up. And that can be costly – the Insurance Information Institute reports that a deer-vehicle collision averages $2,800 per insurance claim, and $10,000 if there is injury to the driver or a passenger.

The Better Business Bureau of Northern Colorado and Wyoming says that “[o]nly comprehensive coverage reimburses drivers for loss due to contact with animals such as birds or deer.” In addition, the BBB adds, “most auto insurance policies do not automatically cover the cost of a replacement rental car after an accident. However, such coverage can be added at a minimal expense, usually a couple dollars a month.”

The BBB says that consumers also should check to see if their policies include gap coverage, which pays the difference between the amount the insurer pays for a totaled vehicle and the amount the insured owes on his or her lease or loan.