Autumn is a wonderful time of year for most Pennsylvanian drivers, but there is always one problematic aspect for most drivers, the increase of deer on the road. If a deer jumps in front of your car, it could have deadly consequences for you and the furry friend.
According to PennDOT, Pennsylvania residents can expect to see more deer throughout late September into November due to their breeding season. Also, the breeding season causes deer to act erratically and pay less attention to their surroundings. They may try to cross the highway despite their better judgment.
But what can I do as the driver?
Luckily, motorists can take additional precautions to avoid deer during the fall season, including:
- Slow down – It’s critical to follow the speed limits and use caution while driving in the early morning and evening hours. These are the periods when deer are most active, so you need to drive at a speed that allows you to stop suddenly.
- Look out for signs – In rural areas or regions with a lot of deer activity, cities will post signs to warn drivers of potential deer in the area. You should watch out for these signs and practice safe driving in those specific areas.
- Leave room between cars – It sounds unrelated to deer, but if a deer runs between you or the car in front, it helps to leave ample room so no one gets rear-ended in the process.
- Never drive impaired – Whether you are impaired because of alcohol influences or other distractions, it’s important to never drive if you cannot pay attention to the road. You need to keep your eyes out for deer and other hazards in order to avoid a severe accident.
All these tips will help you avoid deer and react safely if a deer runs in front of your vehicle. However, if there is a situation where you cannot avoid an accident, remember to seek medical attention and take photos of the scene. It may help you in future claims or cases.