As the leaves turn and the air chills in Rockford, IL, and the surrounding Stateline communities, deer collision season ramps up. From October through December, whitetail deer are on the move—mating season (rut) sends bucks chasing does across highways like I-90, US-20, and rural roads in Winnebago, Boone, and Ogle counties. Illinois ranks among the top states for deer-vehicle crashes, with the Illinois Department of Transportation reporting over 15,000 deer-related accidents annually. In the Rockford area alone, local police logs spike with deer strikes every fall.

At Rockton Collision Center, we’ve repaired hundreds of vehicles mangled by deer impacts. Bent frames, shattered windshields, deployed airbags—the damage adds up fast. But here’s the hard truth our ASE-certified technicians want every driver to know: if a deer darts in front of you, it’s often safer—and cheaper—to hit it head-on than to swerve.

• A sudden lane change at 55+ mph can launch your vehicle into a ditch, tree, or guardrail.
• In the Stateline area, roads like IL-2 and IL-75 are lined with steep drop-offs and dense woods. Rollovers from swerving deer account for serious injuries and fatalities far more often than the deer impact itself.
• IIHS data: Drivers who swerve are 3x more likely to suffer severe or fatal injuries than those who brake firmly and strike the deer.

• Hit the deer head-on? That’s an animal collision, filed under comprehensive coverage (not collision). ✅ Comprehensive claims almost never raise your rates—insurance companies treat deer strikes like hail damage or a fallen tree branch: unavoidable acts of nature. ✅ Lower (or $0) deductible in many policies. ✅ No “at-fault” determination.
• Swerve and hit a tree, guardrail, or oncoming car? Now it’s a collision claim. ❌ Collision claims are surchargeable—expect rate increases of 20–40% for 3–5 years, even with a clean record prior. ❌ Higher deductibles (often $500–$1,000). ❌ You’re considered at-fault for losing control.
• Real talk from Rockton Collision Center: We’ve seen customers save thousands in future premiums by braking straight into a deer instead of swerving into a pole. One 2024 client avoided a $1,800/year rate hike because their deer strike stayed comprehensive.

• An average Illinois whitetail weighs 120–200 lbs. Modern vehicles have crumple zones and airbags designed to absorb impacts far greater than a deer strike.
• Hitting a deer head-on typically damages the hood, grille, bumper, and radiator—repairable damage we handle daily at Rockton Collision Center. Swerving into a fixed object? That’s frame damage, totaled vehicles, and hospital bills.

• Slam the brakes in a straight line. This shortens stopping distance and keeps your wheels aligned.
• Don’t drop the wheel—maintain grip to steer only if the deer clears your path at the last second.

• I-90 between Rockford and Belvidere – Heavy deer crossings at dusk/dawn.
• IL-173 near Roscoe and Machesney Park – Rural stretch with frequent sightings.
• Harrison Ave & Perryville Rd corridors – Urban edges where deer wander from forest preserves.

1. 1. Pull over safely (hazards on).
2. Call 911 if injured or if the deer is blocking the road.
3. Document everything—photos for insurance. Mention you braked straight—helps keep it comprehensive.
4. Tow to Rockton Collision Center (815-282-2888). We work with all major insurers, handle direct billing, and offer lifetime warranties on repairs.

• Slow down at dawn/dusk – Deer are most active.
• Use high beams when safe—deer eyes reflect light.
• Honk in bursts if you see one; they often freeze otherwise.
• Deer whistles? Mixed evidence—don’t rely on them alone.

A repaired fender and steady insurance rates beat a totaled car, injuries, and a premium spike. This deer season, brake hard, hold the wheel straight, and trust your vehicle—and your comprehensive coverage.

If the unthinkable happens, bring your car to Rockton Collision Center—Rockford’s premier auto body shop for frame straightening, paintless dent repair, and OEM-quality collision repairs.

📍 Serving Rockford, Loves Park, Machesney Park, Roscoe, Belvidere, and the entire Stateline region.

🚗 Free estimates. Insurance approved. Open Mon–Fri.

Call (815) 324-3005 or schedule online before the next deer darts out.

Stay safe—and keep your rates low—Rockford.