Every year, the Sheboygan Police Department responds to accidents involving an automobile and a deer. Not only does it cause damage to the automobile but sadly the deer are either injured or killed. No one wants to be involved in a car/deer accident so how do we avoid this happening. The following are tips to reduce the chance of being involved in a car/deer accident.
First, notice the deer warning signs - these signs are placed at a location for a reason (high volume of deer sighted and/or a number of previous accidents). Be Alert!
Second, keep to the speed limit - driving the recommended speed will enable you to slow down in time if you spot a deer. Be Alert!
Third, take extra care during peak deer movement seasons, during the month of May (yearlings and young bucks) and in the time from October to December (rut), deer increase movement. Be Alert!
Fourth, if you see one deer, be prepared for others, deer travel together and fellow deer may be following behind. Be Alert!
Fifth, use your headlights on high beam if there is no oncoming traffic, this will make it easier to spot deer due to the headlights reflecting off their eyes, however, once you see them, dip your beams, otherwise they may "freeze" while on the road - hence the expression "a deer caught in the headlights". Be Alert!
Swerving to avoid hitting a deer (or other animal) can be dangerous. A violent change of direction or an abrupt halt has the potential to put a driver, their passengers and other road users in grave danger. The risk of serious injury and damage to vehicles has to be weighed up against the significance of the life of the unfortunate deer (or other animal) on the highway. Swerving or swift evasive action should only be attempted if your are confident that you are not putting yourself, your passengers or any other road users in danger. Be Alert!
Being aware of your surroundings and ALERT while you drive is the key - the deer (and other animals) will appreciate it!
