Advice On Automobile Safety During Deer Season

by SuzyQ

posted on 10/22/2009

This is the time of year, in many parts of the country, when deer are very prevalent. It's mating season and it's hunting season, so drivers have to be especially vigilant, especially when driving in heavily wooded areas where deer may congregate. An accidental encounter with a deer can do more than serious damage to your vehicle. It can kill you.

In order to protect yourself and your vehicle, here are some driving tips during deer season.

Be aware of your surroundings. If you're driving on an unfamiliar road, look for deer crossing signs, which will be posted in areas where deer frequently travel. Be observant. Deer are creatures of habit and will often use the same path over and over again. Always be on your guard.

Stay alert at all times. Deer are beautiful animals, but they can be very destructive. Deer standing by the side of the road may suddenly dart out, in front of your car, to cross the road. If you see a deer standing ahead, slow down, blow your horn and anticipate the deer's next move.

Assume there are more deer around. If you see one deer, chances are there are more hiding. Look for groups. If one deer crosses the road, there is a good chance that another one isn't far behind.

Don't be afraid to blow your horn. Although some motor vehicles have special devices mounted on the hood to scare deer (they emit high frequency sounds that are not audible to human ears), there is no guarantee that they work. So it is better to be safe than sorry. Blast your horn to scare the deer.

If you see a crash coming, slow down. Sometimes hitting a deer is unavoidable, so if you have time to react, slow down your vehicle by releasing your foot from the brake pedal before impact. This maneuver will help maneuver the car so the deer has a better chance of going under the vehicle instead of through the windshield.

When driving in heavily wooded and deer-infested areas, drive slowly. The slower your speed, the quicker your reaction time. Also, make sure you have your seat belt buckled.

If you are involved in an accident, don't try to move an injured deer. Deer may look like delicate animals, but they are powerful and strong. The deer may panic and could seriously hurt you. If you have a cell phone and a signal, call the local police or animal control officers.

Accidents with deer come on suddenly and with little warning. In most cases, the deer are as frightened as you might be. However, if you take the sensible precautions listed above, you can minimize any damage and injuries from an encounter with a deer.

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