Wildlife collisions are common on rural roads, particularly at dawn and dusk during deer rut season (October-November). Damage ranges from minor (small deer at low speed) to catastrophic (moose impact).
Immediate steps: pull off the road, hazards on, assess injuries to vehicle occupants first. Wildlife should not be approached — injured animals are unpredictable and dangerous.
Call police to file a report (required for most insurance claims). Police often coordinate with state wildlife agencies for animal disposal.
Don't approach the animal — even apparently dead animals can suddenly move and injure approaching people. Larger animals (moose, elk) can be deadly to approach.
After police clear the scene, call roadside if the vehicle isn't drivable. Many wildlife collisions damage the radiator, headlights, or front grille in ways that prevent driving.