Stay Safe on the Roads: Essential Tips for Avoiding Deer Collisions

As autumn leaves paint our surroundings with breathtaking colors, it's easy to get lost in the beauty of the season. However, along with the vibrant scenery comes an hidden danger – a marked increase in deer-related accidents. The financial toll of such accidents is staggering, amounting to over $1 billion annually, with the average repair cost reaching about $3,000 per incident. But you're not powerless; there are actions you can take to safeguard yourself and your vehicle during these high-risk months. Here's how:

Be Mindful of Peak Activity Hours

In the fall, deer are most active in the afternoon and can be harder to see at dawn and dusk. Exercise heightened caution during these times, particularly on rural roads or areas densely populated with trees.

Use Your High Beams Wisely

High beams can be your best friend when driving at night. If there’s no oncoming traffic, switching to high beams can help spot a deer's reflective eyes from further away, thereby giving you more time to react.

Look for More Than One

Spotting a deer crossing the road is often just the beginning—slow down, remain vigilant, and be prepared for others that may follow close behind as deer often travel in groups.

Know When Not to Swerve

In the event of a deer suddenly appearing on the road, brake firmly yet maintain your lane. Swerving increases the risk of more severe accidents involving other vehicles or stationary obstacles like trees and guardrails.

Heed the Signs

Those deer crossing signs serve a significant purpose. Found in high-traffic areas where deer frequently cross, reducing your speed in these zones provides vital extra seconds to react appropriately.

Use Your Seat Belt

A seat belt is your simplest defense, significantly reducing the chance of serious injury in the unfortunate event of a collision.

If a Collision Occurs, Take the Proper Steps

Should a collision transpire, prioritize safety: move your vehicle to a safe area, activate hazard lights, and alert authorities. Avoid approaching the animal and don’t forget to inform your insurance provider about the incident.

While deer collisions pose a significant seasonal hazard, they are not insurmountable. With caution and preparedness, you can dramatically lessen the risk. Treat every rural or wooded road as a potential danger zone, and know that our office is here to help. Should you have any questions about your auto insurance coverage, including protection against deer-related accidents, don't hesitate to reach out to us.