Here a Deer, There a Deer

If it’s the beginning of fall, rest assured that Conestoga Collision is going to remind you that deer are everywhere. And so it is that time of year that we must let you know that, yes, there were 3600 collisions in Pennsylvania last year that involved deer strike. And though safety technology has lessened the likelihood of drivers and passengers being killed in accidents involving deer, six people in our state did lose their lives last year in such a manner. Game officials in PA are projecting that this year’s population will likely be higher than that of last year and the three month stretch from October through December sees a higher likelihood of an accident involving animal strike than any other time of year. So what do you do? Hide in your mancave until April? No, but AAA Mid-Atlantic does recommend the following tips for avoiding the worst results as it pertains to driving this time of the year:

• Be on the lookout for animal movement, especially on the sides of roardways.
• Be especially attentive in early morning and evening hours. Many animals, especially deer, are most active from 5 to 8 a.m. and 5 to 8 p.m.
• Use your high beams when there is no oncoming traffic to spot animals sooner.
• Slow down around curves and drive slower in general.
• If you see a deer, there will likely be more to follow. Deer rarely travel alone.
• Never drive drunk, distracted or drowsy.
• Don’t go near a wounded animal, which can be unpredictable and cause injury. If it’s in the middle of the road and blocking traffic, call the police immediately.