How To Avoid Hitting Deer With Your Vehicle

But drivers can avoid an accident and spending lots of money on the damage by following these smart driving tips this fall and winter.

1. Use extra caution at dawn and dusk when deer are most active. These are times when visibility is limited and deer are frequently on the move. Slow down and stay alert, especially after dark.
2. Remember that deer travel in packs ? if you spot one, chances are there are more nearby. Just because one successfully made it across the road in front of you is no reason to let down your guard.
3. Drive with caution when moving through deer-crossing zones. The deer may not cross there, but they could dart out of the trees farther down the road.
4. Don't swerve to avoid striking a deer, as that increases the risk of hitting another vehicle or losing control of the car.
5. If there is no opposing traffic, use high beams at night to better illuminate deer. Don't rely on devices such as deer whistles or reflectors to try to scare off deer. They have not been proven to reduce deer-vehicle collisions.

If a deer stays on the road after you hit it, contact the authorities, as the deer poses some risk to other motorists. If the deer is still alive, don't go near it because a wild animal with sharp hooves can inflict injuries.