Love is in the air and that means deer are more active than usual. It’s time for the Deer Rut (mating season) and it sends the deer into a frenzy. November is the worst month of the year for deer/car collisions followed by October then December.
Below are tips from the Oklahoma Insurance Department to avoid an accident involving animals as well as what to do if you are involved in an accident:
How to Avoid an Animal Collision
Wildlife can be unpredictable.
A driver may encounter a number of scenarios at any given moment when crossing paths with an animal so knowing how to react can make all the difference.
- Deer tend to travel in herds so, if you see one, look out for more.
- Watch for deer signs. They are placed at known deer-crossing areas. Reduce your speed when you see a sign.
- Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk. Many animals, especially deer, are more active in the early morning and at dusk.
- Use high beam headlights if there’s no oncoming traffic. Wildlife may be spotted sooner with high beams, and they also help spotting some animals’ reflective eyes.
What to Do After an Animal Accident
Some accidents are unavoidable.
If you are about to hit a deer, hold firmly onto the steering wheel, apply your brakes and come to a stop.
If you can’t avoid a collision, try not to swerve.
If you swerve, you could lose control and hit a tree or veer into oncoming traffic.
After a crash with wildlife, follow the steps below:
- If you can, move your car to a safe place and turn on your hazard lights.
- Stay away from the animal. A frightened or wounded animal can lash out and hurt you.
- If you can’t move your car or the animal carcass is blocking traffic, alert the authorities so they can clear the roadway.
- Document the incident by taking photos of your vehicle damage, the roadway and any injuries sustained.
- Check to see if your vehicle is safe to operate. Check for leaking fluid, damaged lights, loose parts or other safety hazards. When in doubt, call a tow truck.
In addition to being dangerous, deer crashes can also be costly if you don’t have the right auto insurance coverage. Contact BHC Insurance today to learn more about comprehensive auto coverage to make sure you’re covered.
