With summer break now over, and the nights getting longer, it’s time for drivers to start thinking about the risks that will come with the fall – such as the risk of a deer running out in front of their vehicle.
Knowing how to reduce the risk that a deer will surprise you while driving can help reduce the chances you’ll end up in hospital due to a collision.
Learn their habits
The reason that deer activity increases in autumn is that it is mating season. Road safety may not be foremost in the animals’ mind at this time, and they’ll also be moving more than most of the year as they pursue or flee potential partners or rivals.
Dusk and dawn are the two points of the day when deer are most active. As the days shorten, this is more likely to coincide with the times that drivers are on the road.
Reducing your speed at these times of day or when passing by the fields and wooded areas that deer like to frequent allows you more time to spot a deer that may run out in front of you and more chance of braking in time if it does.
Use full beams in likely areas
Putting your full beams on as you pass through wooded areas can help you pick out a deer from a distance, as the light will reflect off their eyes. Remember to dip the beams when another vehicle is approaching.
Do not use evasive maneuvers
One huge mistake a lot of drivers who are surprised by a deer make is to swerve. This can result in them going off the road and maybe into a tree. Or if they swerve the other way, hitting another vehicle head-on. Staying straight and braking firmly is best.
Anyone injured by a driver who chose to swerve around a deer in the road may need to learn more about their right to compensation.
