How to Avoid Hitting a Deer

It’s that time of year again. Deer can be a problem at any time of year but during the fall when the bucks are in rut, there is an even greater chance of accidents involving deer. The Insurance Information Institute (III) estimates that there are around 1.25 million deer-vehicle collisions each year.

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It’s that time of year again. Deer can be a problem at any time of year but during the fall when the bucks are in rut, there is an even greater chance of accidents involving deer. The Insurance Information Institute (III) estimates that there are around 1.25 million deer-vehicle collisions each year. Ohio and Pennsylvania are high risk states due to the large deer population.

Slow down during dawn and dusk hours. Deer are most active around sunrise and sunset. Be especially watchful at those times. Driving more slowly will give you extra time to react if a deer does run into the road.

Pay attention to warning signs. Places where deer often cross the road are usually marked by deer crossing signs.

Use high beams (if you can do so without angering other drivers.) Obviously, you have more chance of spotting a deer if you have more light.

Please wear your seat belt. Not only is it the law, it can lessen your injuries if you should get into an accident.

If a deer runs out into the road in front of you, try to avoid swerving. Swerving may cause you to end up in a ditch or to hit a tree or another vehicle.

If there is time, slow down and give the deer a chance to get out of the way.

If you hit the deer, pull over in a safe spot and call the police. You’ll want a police report in case the deer does enough damage that you need to turn in a claim. If the deer is nearby, be cautious if you get out of your vehicle to examine the damage. A scared and injured deer can hurt you.

Hitting a deer is covered under the optional comprehensive portion of your auto insurance. Talk to your agent about your coverages.

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