Hitting a Deer Can Save Your Life - Know What To Do

Each year there are approximately 500,000 deer-vehicle collisions, averaging more than 100 deaths and 10,000 injuries nationwide, according to the National Safety Council. In 2002 alone, more than 1.5 million deer-vehicle crashes occurred nationwide, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The crashes resulted in $1.1 billion in vehicle damage and killed about 150 people. The most serious crashes occurred when motorists swerved to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or a fixed object, or when their vehicle rolled over.

In many states the continuing explosion in the deer population has lead to a corresponding increase in deer-related collisions. And there does not appear to be an end in sight because the deer population continues to grow and urban habitats continue to spread to previously rural environments.

The late fall is peak deer breeding season and consequently deer are more active. One-half to two-thirds of all deer-vehicle collisions occur in October, November and December. Accidents most frequently occur in rural areas, on high-speed roads, where forest cover is close to the roadway, and during darkness, dusk or dawn.

When a deer appears on a roadway, drivers only have a brief moment to react. According to a survey cited by the Michigan State Police, one out of three drivers would not know what to do or would take the wrong action when confronted with an unavoidable car-deer crash.

While there is often little you can do to prevent deer from sprinting onto the roadway in front of your vehicle, there are defensive moves you can make to minimize damage:

Wear your safety belts; they are your best defense in any collision.
When driving, particularly at dusk and dawn, slow down and be attentive. Deer are herd animals; if you see one deer, likely there will be others.
Use caution when you see deer-crossing and speed-limit signs as deer habitually travel in the same areas. States are giving you warnings; heed them! Slow down and scan the sides of the road and ditches for animals. Watch for movement or reflection from their eyes.
Don't rely on gimmicks like flashing your high-beam headlights or honking your horn to deter deer.
Never swerve out of your lane to miss a deer. A collision with another vehicle, tree or other object is likely to be more serious than hitting a deer.

If a crash is unavoidable, here are some tips:

Don't swerve! Brake firmly, hold onto the steering wheel and bring your vehicle to a controlled stop.
Pull off the road, turn on your emergency flashers and be cautious of other traffic if you leave your vehicle.
Don't attempt to remove a deer from the roadway unless you are convinced it is dead. An injured deer's sharp hooves can easily hurt you.
Report the crash to the police and your insurance company.