No matter how diligent of a driver you are, it’s impossible to avoid hitting a deer when it sprints across the road at the last second. The combination of your speed and the weight of the animal can cause substantial harm to your vehicle. Even if your car looks relatively unscathed, it’s still wise to consider roadside assistance. Here’s what you should know about deer damage to your car. 

What Kind of Damage Can Result From a Collision With a Deer?

The crash that results from contact with a deer can range from minor to severe. The damage depends on how fast your vehicle was going, how full or partial the contact was, and how big of a deer you hit.

The front part of your car will be most affected since that’s where the collision occurred. The most common consequence of these encounters is damage to the radiator, which often results in leaking coolant. You could be looking at engine and transmission damage, shattered lights, a warped hood, or many dents, scratches, and other superficial marks. While a bigger vehicle like an SUV affords greater protection in these unfortunate instances, they can sustain damage as well. 

Why Should You Get Roadside Assistance? 

Even if you don’t notice any dramatic damage after inspecting your vehicle after a crash, that doesn’t mean there isn’t any. When the key components of your car have received that type of shock, there is a high likelihood that they may develop problems as a result. The damage might not be visible to a layman, so the best practice is to hire a roadside assistance service and have them tow you to the nearest mechanic. 

Consider the most common issue—the leaking radiator. Without enough coolant, it will become more difficult to prevent your engine from overheating. That high temperature can permanently damage your engine and even lead to a fire. If the damage is slight enough, the roadside assistance crew may be able to fix it on the spot; if not, they’ll take you to a mechanic who can. 

If you have a car accident involving a deer, don’t hesitate to contact the roadside assistance professionals at Mayse's Towing in Wapakoneta, OH. The towing professionals will quickly take your vehicle to the nearest mechanic’s shop, so you can be sure you’re not driving a compromised car. If you have tire damage or other clear concerns, the team can address them on the spot. Get in touch with the veteran crew by calling (419) 738-2055, or visit their website to learn more about their services.