Everett Crash Re-Ignites Swerve Or Hit The Animal Debate

Posted on Twitter this morning a photo of a crash on Merrill Creek Parkway where a work van went off the road and slammed into a tree.

The driver reported he had to swerve to avoid a dog in the roadway.

Luckily there were no injuries but it does bring up the question of whether or not you should swerve off the road to avoid hitting an animal.

Several year ago MyEverettNews.com ran an article from McClain Insurance talking about that issue as it pertains to a deer crossing your path.

Something that, believe it or not, happens fairly often to folks who drive Mukilteo Boulevard through Everett.

Here is that article. After your read, feel free to share your thoughts on our Facebook Page.

It seems a bit shocking at first but with more and more deer coming into populated areas around Everett a local insurance agent says, go ahead and hit the deer. Claudia McClain explains that instead of swerving to avoid hitting a deer it may be better to go ahead and hit it. Here’s her explanation from a recent newsletter…

“First, don’t panic. Next, hold on to the steering wheel, apply the brakes, aim straight ahead, and take the deer out.

We’re serious.

Whatever you do, do not swerve to avoid the deer. Here’s why…

The most serious accidents occur when a driver swerves to get out-of-the-way of an animal and loses control of their car; striking a tree, another car, or another person.

In case of doubt, hit the deer. He won’t sue you.

If you do strike a deer remember it’s a “comprehensive” claim. This means you don’t get a chargeable accident on your driving record like you’ll get if you hit a tree or another car.”

McClain offers more advice about avoiding deer collisions here.