Auto body shops in the Ozarks are busy with reports of deer damage

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) – In early October, KY3 and MoDOT officials informed everyone that the white-tailed deer mating season through November will lead to an increase in the number of deer crossing roads in the area.

Even with that prospect, Aaron Bruton, vice president of operations at Hammer’s Autoworks in Springfield, says they’ve received many calls from car owners about deer damage.

“This time of year is particularly busy for us during the first deer season,” says Bruton. “But actually we expect this when it is this time of year. We are adjusting our schedule accordingly, knowing that there will be a lot of drop-offs and tow-ins due to deer season.”

On Oct. 28, Hammer’s had 12 to 15 vehicles towed due to deer damage. By the time KY3 spoke to the shop on Nov. 1, another three to four cars had been brought in. Experts have spotted a range of front and side damage to vehicles after being hit by deer.

One vehicle we saw was a GMC Acadia that had damage to the cooling systems, headlights, grill, bumper and hood. Although the initial repair cost of that particular SUV was an estimated $8,000, Bruton points to a key reason why the repair costs are somewhere between $5,000 and $10,000.

“It has to do with parts prices and technology,” says Bruton. ‘They have computer systems, radars, cameras and all kinds of detection equipment. All of that needs to be replaced or calibrated and reprogrammed. All those costs go directly to the cost of the repair.”

Even as some prices for repairs run a bit high, Bruton and experts are encouraged that the supply chain for many parts is in much better shape post-pandemic. This ensures that parts are delivered on time and that repair times remain under control.

As for what drivers can do to prevent potential deer accidents, Bruton immediately threw cold water on the idea of deer whistles and deer horns. While there are several options available ranging from $7 to $70, he says he hasn’t seen any of them work very effectively.

“That’s something I get asked about every year,” Bruton says. “The answer I always give to that question is that we repair a lot of deer damaged cars that have deer whistles on them.”

As for what works, Bruton wants drivers to be extra vigilant when traveling in the early morning hours and evenings, when deer are most active.

“The best thing you can do is hit the brakes and try to stop,” Bruton says. “We see very bad scenarios when people try to swerve. If they correct too much, they can end up in ditches and hit trees, causing cars to overturn. Bad scenarios can happen. If this happens, hit the animal. It’s always better than swerving and ending up in a ditch somewhere.”

Additionally, experts say that if you are in an accident, it is best to call and have your vehicle inspected. The faster you can do that, the faster they can repair your car and get it back on the road as quickly as possible.

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