Web posted on November 05, 2009

Avoiding a Deer Collision

(County of Wellington, ON.) -November marks the start of the deer's mating season. Studies have shown that the deer's activities are somewhat consistent this time of the year. With insight about their movements and knowing how the deer move during this time of year, could be essential to avoiding a collision with deer during this fall season.

In the past three days there have been 10 car deer collisions within the County of Wellington. The County of Wellington OPP would like to remind motorists of a few simple tips, which may reduce your chance of becoming involved with a deer collision.

* 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.

* Drive with caution when moving through deer-crossing zones, in areas where roads divide agricultural fields from forestland. Deer seldom run alone. If you see one deer, others are likely nearby.

* When driving at night, use high beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic. The high beams will better illuminate the eyes of deer on or near the road.

* Slow down and blow your horn with one long blast to frighten the deer away.

* Brake firmly when you notice a deer in or near your path, but stay in your lane. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or lose control of their cars.

* Always wear your seat belt. Most people injured in car/deer crashes were not wearing their seat belt.

* Do not rely on devices such as deer whistles, deer fences or reflectors to scare away deer. These devices have not been proven to reduce deer-vehicle collisions.

Remember, your first priority is to the safety of you and your passengers. Use caution on roads near a forested area with a creek nearby.
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