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Allstate Claims Experts Offer Tips for Avoiding a Run in with Our Forest Friends

IRVING, Texas - November 3, 2006: Tomorrow, November 4th, marks the start of deer season in Texas, and according to Allstate Insurance Company that means more chance of having a run-in with nature. According to Allstate claim experts, accidents involving animals increase dramatically this time of year.

"During the fall, deer are more abundant and more active and we see a huge increase in accidents that involve drivers hitting an animal," says Allstate Auto Claim Process Expert Mike Calkins. "In fact, this time of year these types of claims more than double in Texas compared to any other time of year."

Last year, Allstate reported more than 2,000 "hit an animal" claims in the fourth quarter in Texas, compared to approximately 700 similar claims in the prior quarter and 2,500 claims in the first three quarters combined. Calkins says hitting something as large as a deer can also cause quite a bit of damage, with an average claim costing between $2,000 and $2,500.

To avoid hitting an animal in the road, Allstate says drivers should be extra cautious at dawn and dusk, especially on two-lane and rural roads, and be sure to reduce speed when encountering deer crossing signs. Deer often travel in groups, so if one deer crosses the road, be on the alert for others that may follow. On a dark road, drivers should be on the lookout for the reflection of their vehicle's headlights in the eyes of a deer or other animal. If an animal does "freeze" in the glare of the lights, driver should apply their brakes, and turn lights off, then on again. Also, try not to swerve as this could cause the vehicle to go into a ditch or oncoming traffic.

If you do hit an animal in the road, Allstate says, contact the police, remain calm, and call your insurance company to file a claim.