Driving in Alaska offers incredible scenery, but it also comes with hazards that are uncommon in much of the United States. One of the most significant is the possibility of colliding with wildlife. Moose, caribou, deer, bears, and other animals regularly cross Alaska’s roads and highways, especially during the fall and winter months. While any wildlife encounter can be dangerous, moose are responsible for many of the state’s most serious animal-related vehicle accidents because of their size and height.

An adult moose can weigh well over 1,000 pounds and stand more than six feet tall at the shoulder. Unlike smaller animals, a moose’s body often impacts the windshield and passenger compartment during a collision, increasing the potential for serious injuries. Even newer vehicles with advanced safety features can sustain extensive damage in these accidents.

Wildlife collisions can happen almost anywhere. They are especially common at dawn and dusk when visibility is lower and animals are more active. Winter conditions can make matters even more challenging. Snowbanks may force animals onto roadways, while shorter daylight hours reduce the amount of time drivers have to react.

The best defense is awareness. Pay attention to wildlife crossing signs, reduce your speed in known wildlife corridors, and scan both sides of the road—not just the lane ahead. If you see one moose, assume there may be another nearby. Avoid swerving suddenly, as losing control of your vehicle can create an even greater hazard than the animal itself.

Many drivers are surprised to learn how their insurance responds after a wildlife collision. In most cases, damage caused by striking an animal is covered under comprehensive auto insurance rather than collision coverage. Comprehensive coverage is designed for events that are generally outside the driver’s control, such as theft, vandalism, hail, falling objects, and collisions with wildlife. If you only carry liability insurance, however, repairs to your own vehicle typically will not be covered.

After an accident, safety should always come first. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location, turn on your hazard lights, and call emergency services if anyone is injured. Do not approach an injured moose or other wildlife. Injured animals can behave unpredictably and may still pose a danger. Contact local authorities so they can safely manage the situation.

Documenting the accident can also help the claims process. Take photographs of the vehicle, the surrounding area, and any visible evidence if it is safe to do so. Notify your insurance company as soon as practical and provide accurate information about what happened. Your insurance representative can explain the next steps and answer questions about your deductible, rental coverage, and repair options.

For people relocating to Alaska, wildlife collisions are often an unexpected risk. Many new residents have never considered whether their policy includes comprehensive coverage because it may not have seemed necessary where they previously lived. Reviewing your policy after moving to Alaska is a good opportunity to evaluate whether your current coverage reflects local driving conditions.

While no insurance policy can prevent an accident, having the right coverage can make the recovery process much less stressful. Understanding your options before an incident occurs allows you to make informed decisions and travel Alaska’s roads with greater confidence.