It appears from the photos on Facebook and circling the web that this hunting season has been a success for area hunters. Sadly, this deer season has also had its share of car/deer accidents resulting in injuries and car damage for thousands of motorists throughout mid Michigan.
Having a deer run into your path while on the road is a very scary thing, if you're not prepared on what to do. Being quick to act and knowing some of these preventive techniques will go along ways for the safety of you and your passengers.
Preventative Techniques
- The most important safety tip is to travel at posted speeds or below them. The more conservative you are with your speed, the more time you will have to break for a deer.
- Drive with your lights on for better visibility.
- Scan the side of the roads for eyes shining in your headlights.
- When possible, drive with your high beams on. This is another trick to increase visibility which can help with your reaction time.
- Pay attention to the signs along roads that warn of high deer traffic areas. These signs are there to indicate problem areas for motorists and should not be ignored.
- Wear your seat-belt.
Where are the deer?
- Deer are frequently found in highly wooded areas and mostly on the outskirts of towns. Although it is not uncommon for people to see them within suburban areas.
- Deer travel in large packs. If you see one, you can assume that there are several more nearby.
- From October to January, Deer, are in heat and breeding. The effect of this is that they are highly active and tend to be on the move during prime hours such as dusk and dawn.
What to do when seeing a deer
- The golden rule is to never swerve to avoid a deer in the road. Swerving can cause for you to lose control of your vehicle, resulting in a potential head on collision, driving into a ditch or tree, which can lead to more serious injuries and vehicle damage.
- Slow down when you spot a deer.
If you have the unfortunate luck to actually hit a deer call the proper emergency services that are needed. If no one is injured it is still a good idea to get an official police report of the incident for documentation for the insurance company.
Stay alert and safe travels!
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