The Idaho Department of Insurance is warning Idaho drivers to watch out for deer, elk and other wildlife that are migrating to lower elevations; November is the peak month for deer-vehicle crashes. “We encourage drivers to be careful and pay attention to animals crossing highways,” said Dean Cameron, director of the Idaho Department of Insurance. “Learn how to prevent accidents, and be sure you have the appropriate automobile coverage before a collision occurs.”

The department is offering a list of tips here, from insurance coverage to how to prevent accidents to what to do if one happens. Among them: “If you are about to hit a deer, hold firmly onto the steering wheel, apply your brakes and come to a stop; if you can’t avoid the collision, try not to swerve – swerving can cause you to lose control and veer into oncoming traffic.”

Also: “Vehicle damage caused by a collision with an animal is covered under an auto policy’s optional comprehensive portion and is subject to the policy’s deductible.”