How To Avoid Hitting A Deer
It seems like so many of our friends and relatives have either hit a deer, or just had a number of near-misses with whitetail deer.
I read some articles recently about how to avoid hitting a deer, and how to minimize the damage if you do.
The Best Tips For Avoiding Deer:
"If an encounter with a deer is inevitable, then you should hit the brakes up until the very last second of impact; suddenly releasing the brakes will send the deer propelling into the roadway rather than into your windshield." Source
"If you spot a deer in the road, slow down immediately and blow your horn with one long blast to frighten it away." Source
"Most motorist deaths and injuries occur when drivers swerve to avoid hitting the deer and strike a fixed object, such as a tree or another vehicle. It may seem powerless, but simply applying your brakes while you're buckled up, gripping the steering wheel with both hands, and coming to a controlled stop (if possible) can actually help minimize damage and injuries." Source
"Be especially attentive from sunset to midnight and during the hours shortly before and after sunrise. These are the highest risk times for deer-vehicle collisions." Source
"Don't assume there's only one deer crossing the road -- they usually travel in groups." Source
"When you encounter deer along the roadside, turn on your emergency lights to let other motorists know about the potential danger." Source
More great tips, specifically for motorcycle riders... "How to Avoid Deer and Other Animals on a Motorcycle".
Some Interesting Facts:
- November Is The Worst Month For Deer Accidents
- Stats: Deer Automobile Collisions
- Crash Reports: Deer & Animal Deaths
- Deer Damage Usually Costs $2,000-$10,000
- Roadkill Stats
Fun & Funny Deer Stuff...
Check out this video of two deer "boxing" in the wild.
If you like hunting, then you'll love this Deer Hunting Game from ESPN.
A funny story about tagging a deer... in a van... offroad.
Listen to Bud Light's Real Men of Genius "Mr. Camouflage Suit Maker":
I've lived in an area with a high deer population for 30 years and have never ever hit one. I have learned the best way to avoid hitting them is to not only go the speed limit or below this, but to use high beams- look out for their reflecting eyes, and to honk the horn every few minutes in areas where you suspect wildlife(you may want to do this during the day as well-they're still about), they have amazing hearing and through the sound of the car horn, can track the direction and motion of your car from great distances. I noticed areas where I do not travel regularly doing this, I often see deer carcasses and other dead wildlife beside the road.