Auto collisions with deer rise in autumn, motorists urged to be alert

Local motorists are being warned to be on the outlook for deer along roadways during the autumn months as mating season is under way and deer are often on the move.

Last year, 5,990 auto accidents involving deer were reported statewide. In New Kent County, 68 mishaps occurred while eight took place in Charles City County. Of the statewide total, more than half occurred in October, November, and December with 1,575 taking place during November alone.

DMV and AAA Mid-Atlantic offer the following tips for drivers:

–Buckle up and reduce speed. A decrease in speed gives more time to react.

–Be observant. Look for deer-crossing signs indicating areas where deer frequently travel. Deer are creatures of habit and may often use the same path again – remember where they are seen.

–Be alert. A deer standing near a roadside may suddenly run across the road. Slow down and use the vehicle’s horn to scare the deer. Never shine or flash the vehicle’s lights. This can cause the deer to fixate on the vehicle. Use high-beams for greater visibility.

–Look for groups. Deer travel in groups, so if one is spotted crossing the road ahead slow down, as there are probably others in the area but out of view.

–Never swerve. Instead, slow down and brake. Swerving can cause loss of vehicle control and possibly striking another vehicle or object along the roadway.

–Do not rely on devices. There is no conclusive evidence that hood-mounted deer whistles and other such devices work.

–Slow down. If a crash with a deer is unavoidable, AAA recommends slowing down and avoid braking before impact. This will raise the front end of the car during the crash and increase the likelihood that the animal will go underneath the vehicle instead of through the windshield.

If involved in a deer-related crash, drivers are required by law to report the incident to a local conservation police officer (game warden) or local law enforcement where the incident occurred.