According to data from the Deer Vehicle Crash Information Clearinghouse, Michigan, Illinois, New York, and Ohio report the highest number of deer-vehicle crashes during 2007-2008. And while many states attempt to take preventive measures to control the deer population, avoiding a dangerous accident with a deer is ultimately up to the driver.
Deer activity is at its peak during the fall and winter from mid-September through December around sunrise and sunset, so before you set out on your next road trip or just weekday commute, here are some driving safety tips to keep you safe and accident free during deer season.
1. Have a Plan
It’s important to know how to react to a deer popping out onto the road, before it happens. Before you hit the road, have an emergency plan in place. Know how to use your anti-lock brakes, how to steer without swerving and other safe driving techniques. You also should not hesitate in making a decision. Either brake immediately and assertively or step on the gas and accelerate past the deer. You’ll need to choose the best course of action for the particular situation at a moment’s notice.
2. Don’t Steer Clear of Deer
While hitting a deer is an experience that most drivers want to avoid, you should never risk your life or the lives of your passengers to save an animal’s life. Many deer-related accidents occur when drivers steer to avoid a deer and end up hitting another car or driving off the road. If you see the deer in time, you can try honking to frighten the deer. You should also learn how to use your ABS steering, which allows maximum steering ability during braking. A little bit of steering goes a long way, so be careful not over over-steer.
3. Stay Alert
With deer appearing on the road, with no prior warning, it’s important to stay alert and remain distraction-free. In the time it takes you to pick up your phone, a deer can easily jump onto the road and cause an accident. Also remember that deer often travel in packs, so if you see one, there are probably other deer around.
4. Follow the Speed Limit
Your car’s speed can have a big effect on how long you have to react to a sudden obstacle on the road and also the extent of the impact of an accident. It’s always a good idea to follow the speed limit and if you see deer on the side of the road, you may want to slow down below the speed limit. Deer can be unpredictable.
5. Wear Your Seat Belt
In the unfortunate event of an accident, your seat belt can save your life. While you should always have your seat belt on, it is a must have during deer season.
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I installed a set of “deer whistles” on the front of my truck, and a deer hasn’t come close to me for a couple years. Although they are supposed to be outside the range of our ears, once in a while I can pick up their sound if the conditions are right. Don’t know if I’ll get a discount from Allstate for using them, but they’re cheap and easy to install and that makes it worth it!