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Ask anyone who’s been involved in a deer-vehicle accident how he or she felt about it, and the likely response may be "frightening," "didn’t see it coming," or "I’m lucky to tell about it."

More than 30,000 deer collisions occur each year on Ohio’s highways, mostly in October and November, usually around dusk and dawn.

The consequences are sobering: It’s not uncommon for five or six Ohioans to die in deer-related crashes each year. Close to a thousand people are injured. Damage to vehicles exceeds $60 million.

Most insurers cover these losses under the comprehensive (or "other than collision") portion of an auto insurance policy, minus the deductible. But some people choose not to buy comprehensive coverage. Call your agent or check your policy to be sure of your own coverage.

Ohio Insurance Institute officials note that insurers normally don't single out deer-vehicle collision losses in determining future premium adjustments. Such a collision alone should not affect future premiums.

Precautions, safety tips, and more

• If you see one deer along a road or highway, expect that others will follow. Slow down and stay alert.

• When driving at night, use high beams when there's no oncoming traffic. High beams light up the eyes of a deer on or near the road, giving you more reaction time.

• Always wear a seat belt and drive at a safe, sensible speed for the conditions.

• Don't swerve your vehicle to avoid hitting a deer. If you cannot avoid the accident, hit the deer and keep control of the vehicle. The alternative could be much worse.

• Stay alert. Deer can be unpredictable and may be startled by bright headlights, horns and fast-moving traffic.

• Report deer-vehicle accidents to a local law enforcement agency, the Ohio Highway Patrol, or a state wildlife officer within 24 hours.

• Under Ohio law, the driver of a vehicle that hits and kills a deer may take possession of it. But first get a deer possession receipt from law enforcement or state wildlife officers, or from the local Division of Wildlife district office.