Moose and Deer Collisions in New Hampshire: Safety and Legal Guide

Why Moose Collisions Are So Severe

A moose can weigh well over a thousand pounds, and its height means a collision often sends the body through the windshield rather than over the hood — making these crashes far more dangerous than typical animal strikes. New Hampshire's Route 2, Route 3, Route 16, and the North Country highways see the highest risk, particularly at dawn and dusk in late spring and fall.

Reducing Your Risk

Slow down in posted moose-crossing zones, especially after dark, and scan the roadsides and tree line. Use high beams when there is no oncoming traffic to spot eye shine earlier. If a moose is in the road, brake firmly and do not swerve into oncoming traffic or off the road — many serious injuries come from the evasive maneuver rather than the animal itself.

The Legal Picture

A collision with a wild animal is often a single-vehicle crash, which means your own collision and medical coverage typically come into play rather than a claim against another driver. But liability can shift if another driver's negligence contributed — for example, if a vehicle ahead stopped unsafely or a second vehicle struck you after the initial collision. Each situation is fact-specific.

After a Collision

Get to safety, call 911, and report the crash. Photograph the scene and damage, and seek medical attention even if you feel uninjured. Review your own policy for collision and medical payments coverage. If another party's conduct played a role, an attorney can evaluate whether a third-party claim exists.