Not Only is it Getting Dark Earlier… But this is Peak Season for Deer-Vehicle Accidents.
Posted by Mary | Filed under Lifestyle
Forget about the money, in this case its about saving lives. Take care as you drive in the evenings and early mornings– because Fall is the worst season for deadly deer related car accidents. My friends at the Insurance Information Institute offer these tips to help you stay safe on the roads. I’ll add this simple request, don’t text or talk on the phone while you drive!
Thanks- Mary
Drivers should be aware of the following:
Deer are not just found on rural roads near wooded areas; many deer crashes occur on busy highways near cities.
Deer are unpredictable, especially when faced with glaring headlights, blowing horns and fast-moving vehicles. They often dart into traffic.
Deer often move in groups. If you see one, there are likely to be more in the vicinity.
Drivers should take the following precautions:
Drive with caution when moving through deer-crossing zones, in areas known to have a large deer population and in areas where roads divide agricultural fields from forestland.
Always wear your seatbelt. The IIHS reports that in a study of fatal animal crashes, 60 percent of people killed were not wearing a seatbelt. Sixty-five percent of people killed in animal related crashes while riding motorcycles were not wearing a helmet.
When driving at night, use high beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic. The high beams will better illuminate the eyes of any deer on or near the roadway.
Be especially attentive from sunset to midnight and during the hours shortly before or after sunrise. These are the highest risk times for deer-vehicle collisions
Brake firmly when you notice a deer in or near your path, but stay in your lane. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or lose control of their cars.
Do not rely on devices such as deer whistles, deer fences and reflectors to deter deer. These devices have not proven effective.
In the event your vehicle strikes a deer, try to avoid going near or touching the animal. A frightened and wounded deer can hurt you or further injure itself. If the deer is blocking the roadway and poses a danger to other motorists, you should call the police immediately.
Tags: deer, deer accidents, safety
One Response to “Not Only is it Getting Dark Earlier… But this is Peak Season for Deer-Vehicle Accidents.”
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Dori Connolly Says:
October 26th, 2009 at 10:29 amThanks Mary for the excellent “DEER GUIDELINES”.
I have family and friends who have been hit by deer with the end result being very costly car repairs.
Your warning is VERY TIMELY.
