Steering Clear of Deer Vehicle Collisions
Beware! Close encounters of the vehicular kind with Bambi and friends can be deadly.
According to theInsurance Information Institute, 1.6 million deer-vehicle collisions occur each year, resulting in hundreds of fatalities, thousands of injuries, and billions of dollars in property damage and medical expenses.
If you happen to live in an area where deer are commonly sighted, stay alert. The most dangerous times of the year are the migration and mating season, which runs from October through December. At that time, deer are on the move, and they are distracted by hormonal surges.
Dawn and dusk are the most dangerous times for deer-vehicle collisions. Not only are there more deer, but the glare of the sun in your eyes makes them harder to see. If possible, do your driving at a safer time. If you must be on the road, slow down and watch the side of the road as well as the road itself. Asking passengers to watch for deer can help you spot them before it is too late.
Be especially cautious in deer crossing zones and on roads which separate agricultural fields from forest. Deer enjoy feeding in rich pasture and grain fields.
Always wear your seatbelt. If the worst happens, it will help reduce the damage.
If you see deer, slow down and turn on your emergency lights to alert other motorists. Honking your horn may encourage the deer to move away. Keep in mind that they are unpredictable, and may dart into traffic unexpectedly. Deer generally travel in groups, so keep watching.
At night, use your high beam whenever you can. It will light up the eyes of the deer and make them more visible in the distance.
Theeffectiveness of deer whistlesis in dispute. However, they are a small investment, and may prevent accidents by repelling the deer.
Do not engage in extreme manoeuvres to avoid deer. Stay in your own lane. Slow down as much as you can, hold your steering wheel firmly, and brace for impact. If you are fortunate, the deer will avoid you. If not, it’s safer to bash Bambi than a transport truck.
Do not approach a wounded animal. Remove your car from the roadway if possible and call the police.
Vehicle collisions with animals are not covered by collision insurance, but by the comprehensive package. Check that you have adequate insurance coverage, just in case your precautions fail.
Discuss these tips with your family, and refer to resources such as theDeer-Vehicle Crash Information Clearing House. Forewarned is forearmed!
