Michigan business owners face a unique seasonal challenge each fall: a sharp increase in deer collisions. For companies with fleet vehicles or employees who drive for work, understanding this risk and preparing coverage ahead of time can prevent unexpected expenses and downtime. As a long-standing independent insurance agency in Grand Rapids, Crosby & Henry Insurance helps businesses across West Michigan review and strengthen their commercial auto protection long before a claim occurs.
Why Deer Collisions Create Fall Fleet Risk
Deer activity spikes in Michigan during fall mating season, especially at dawn and dusk. For businesses with delivery vehicles, sales staff on the road, or crews traveling between job sites, this creates a higher likelihood of vehicle damage and unexpected repair costs. Even a single deer collision can take a vehicle out of service, disrupt operations, and lead to significant repair bills.
How Commercial Auto Policies Address Deer Collisions
In most commercial auto policies, deer collisions fall under comprehensive coverage
rather than collision coverage. Many business owners are surprised by this distinction, which is why reviewing your policy before a loss is so important. Comprehensive coverage generally responds to damage caused by animals, falling objects, fire, theft, and certain weather-related events.
The structure of your commercial auto policy matters as well. Whether you carry individual vehicle coverage or a broader fleet auto policy, it is important to verify that every business-owned vehicle is correctly listed—and insured for the right protections.
The Importance of Comprehensive Coverage
Because deer strikes are covered under comprehensive, businesses should confirm that:
- Each vehicle on the schedule includes comprehensive coverage
- Deductibles are appropriate based on vehicle value and repair costs
- Coverage limits and endorsements align with how vehicles are actually used
Comprehensive deductibles vary widely. A deductible that made sense when the vehicle was new may no longer be appropriate years later. Reviewing these details with an independent insurance agent ensures your business is protected against the most common fall-season losses.
Driver Safety Reminders for Fall
Even with proper coverage, safe driving plays a key role in reducing fleet downtime. Michigan businesses can help their teams stay safe by reminding drivers to:
- Slow down during dawn and dusk travel, when deer are most active
- Stay alert in wooded or rural areas
- Use high beams when appropriate to increase visibility
- Avoid swerving, which can lead to more severe damage or injuries
Encouraging these habits can reduce accident frequency and help keep your workforce safe.
Don’t Forget Hired and Non-Owned Auto Considerations
Many Michigan businesses rely on employee-owned vehicles or short-term rentals rather than a formal fleet. In these situations, hired and non-owned auto coverage plays a critical role. While this coverage does not pay for physical damage to the employee's or rental vehicle itself, it can protect the business from liability if an employee hits a deer—or another vehicle—while driving for work purposes.
This coverage is often overlooked, but it is essential for businesses that deliver goods, provide in-home services, or have employees regularly use personal cars for company tasks.
Why You Should Review Vehicle Schedules and Deductibles Now
Fall is an ideal time for a coverage review because it allows you to catch gaps before peak collision season. Businesses should confirm that:
- All active vehicles appear on the policy schedule
- Inactive vehicles have been removed
- Deductibles match your risk tolerance and vehicle values
- Comprehensive coverage is active for every vehicle that needs it
As a family-owned insurance agency serving Michigan since 1858, Crosby & Henry Insurance understands the unique risks local businesses face. Our role as an independent insurance agency in Grand Rapids allows us to evaluate multiple carriers and ensure your commercial auto coverage reflects real-world fleet operations—not just policy paperwork.
If your business uses company vehicles or has employees who drive for work, now is the time to schedule a commercial auto coverage review. Contact Crosby & Henry Insurance to make sure your fleet is protected for the fall season and beyond.