Avoid Deer When Driving With These Tips
by Maddi Butler
Whatever season you drive in, there will probably be hazards on the road, whether it’s snow, rain, ice, or something else. One of the most common hazards on the road in the late fall and early winter isn’t weather-related, though. During these months, the mating and hunting season is in full swing, which means deer are all over the place, especially if you live in a rural or wooded area. Unfortunately for drivers, this also means you’re more likely to hit a deer. The good news is there are a few strategies you can take to avoid hitting deer and keep yourself and your car safe.
Be aware of your surroundings.
You’re not very likely to hit a deer if you’re driving in the middle of a city. But if you spend a lot of time in rural or wooded areas, you’re probably in territory with higher deer populations. The Department of Transportation will usually post bright yellow deer crossing signs in these areas, which should remind you to keep an eye out when you drive. Of course, deer can roam wherever they please, so be attentive in wooded areas and when passing open fields, which are prime grazing spots for deer.
Take time of day into account.
Are you on the road at sunrise and sunset? Deer are active during these times, so you may encounter them more readily. Using your high beams when possible affords extra visibility, so consider turning them on, especially on poorly-lit roads. The extra light can help you spot deer and other animals more easily.
Don’t swerve.
If you see a deer far enough ahead that you can safely stop and wait for it to cross, do so. However, if a deer runs in front of your car, or you’re driving too fast to slow to a stop, it’s often better not to swerve or slam to a stop. Stopping suddenly is dangerous if another driver is behind you. Similarly, if you jerk the wheel, you risk swerving into oncoming traffic. Both of these situations can be more dangerous and cause more damage than hitting a deer would.
It’s also important to know that deer often travel in groups, so if you see one, others may be close behind. Additionally, making sure your seatbelt is fastened properly decreases your chance of injury if an accident should occur. Nobody wants to hit a deer, but these simple preparations can help you stay safe when you encounter wildlife on the road.