October and November have the highest rates of collisions with deer. Each year car-deer accidents cause more than $1 billion in damage and kill 150 people. With the increased deer activity during the fall, it is important to make sure that you know how to stay safe while on the road. Keep these safety tips in mind to ensure that you, and the deer, stay safe!
- Keep in mind that deer generally travel in groups, so if you see one deer, chances are there will be more deer not far behind.
- Deer are most active during dusk, so make sure to stay especially alert. Slow down and avoid distractions in your vehicle when driving at dusk so that you can appropriately act if you encounter a deer.
- If you are not able to avoid a collision with a deer, do not swerve. Although swerving is a common reaction, it could cause a fatal rollover instead of repairable body damage to your car.
- Make sure your headlights are always working properly. When it is safe, always use your high beams to better see deer on the side of the road.
- Never text while driving. Texting while driving reduces your reaction time to the equivalent of having your blood alcohol content of .08 percent.
- Always wear your seatbelt! This can reduce the chances of a serious injury in case of a collision with a deer.
- If you do collide with a deer, try to move to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. Do not try to remove the deer from the road unless you are completely sure it is dead, wounded deer can be very dangerous.
Most importantly, make sure you have the right auto insurance to provide the right amount of coverage.Â
Contact Cook, Disharoon & Greathouse in Oakland, California for all of your insurance needs.
