Car-Deer Safety Information

Car-Deer Crashes*

According to the U.S. Dept. of Transportation, car accidents involving deer on roads kill nearly 100 people nationwide each year and cost millions of dollars in insurance claims. The average deer/automobile collision results in approximately $2,000 per claim for repairs and injuries. In 2003, drivers were expected to hit 1.8 million deer nationwide.

Here are some tips to avoid a crash:

• Stay aware, awake and sober.
• Wear your safety belts; they are your best defense in any collision.
• Remember, car-deer crashes occur year-round, but be especially alert in spring and fall.
• Heed deer crossing and speed limit signs. Signs are placed at known deer crossing areas to alert you of the possible presence of deer.
• Deer are herd animals and frequently travel in single file. If you see one deer cross the road, chances are there are more waiting.
• Be alert for deer, especially at dawn and dusk. If you see one, slow down.

  If a crash is unavoidable:

• Don’t swerve! Brake firmly, hold onto the steering wheel and bring your vehicle to a controlled stop.
• Pull off the road, turn on your emergency flashers and be cautious of other traffic if you leave your vehicle.
• Don’t attempt to remove a deer from the roadway unless you are convinced it is dead. An injured deer’s sharp hooves can easily hurt you.
• Report the crash to the nearest police agency and your insurance company.

*Source: Michigan State Police

If you don’t see safety information on this page that you think should be here please email us: info@safedrives.com.

Thank you,

And be safe,

Safe Drives Staff

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