Watch for deer even in the spring
April 14, 2014
Most people watch for deer in the fall during mating season, but the spring is a big time for deer as well.
Excerpted from the National Motorist Association Newsletter #254.
- Most deer collisions occur between sundown and midnight, and just before and after dawn, so pay extra attention during these periods.
- Use your high beams as much as possible and scan the roadside for any sudden movements.
- On a multi-lane road, if you won’t impede traffic, consider moving to the left lane (this is one of the few times you’ll hear us recommend this). This creates a “buffer zone” on each side giving you more time to react should a deer pop out.
- Don’t rely on deer whistles. They don’t work.
- Deer travel in herds. When one crosses the road, others are likely right behind.
- If a collision is inevitable, stomp on the brakes but try to stay in your lane. Swerving increases the risk of colliding with an oncoming vehicle or a roadside obstruction.
- Pay attention to deer crossing signs. That’s where the deer cross. And no, you can’t relocate a deer crossing simply by moving the sign, as some suggest.
- Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in a deer collision. Be safe.