BY KAREN BOSSICK

A Washington man got more than a dented fender when he struck a deer that was crossing Highway 75 just north of the Highway 20 junction.

The impact started a fire that engulfed the Eurovan and left it completely burned inside and out.

The fire, which was contained to the vehicle, closed both lanes of the highway at about 10:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Both the 59-year-old driver and his passenger were wearing seatbelts and neither suffered severe injuries. The deer “scampered away” before responders arrived, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Blaine County Sheriff Steve Harkins issued a statement reminding motorists to watch for wildlife on area highways, especially in early mornings and evenings: "We are seeing more wildlife traveling down into the Wood River Valley from the backcountry because of drought conditions. Hitting an animal can cause significant vehicle damage or injuries to the occupants."