Menu

Some time ago, "Home on the Range" was where deer and antelope played. Today, the deer are just as likely to appear in the middle of suburban and rural roads.

Ohio drivers will collide with deer more than 25,000 times this year, and most of those crashes will occur from October through December. The dramatic growth in the Ohio deer population has led to a striking increase in deer-vehicle collisions.

It's important to be aware of the seriousness of these collisions, and some simple ways to keep your family safe.

Nationally in 2000, more than 10,000 injuries and 10 deaths resulted from almost a half-million animal-related vehicle collisions, according to the National Safety Council.

In Ohio, more than 7 percent of all vehicle collisions stem from vehicles striking deer, or deer running into vehicles. Most of these accidents take place the last three months of the year, when breeding season peaks and deer movement increases.

Deer-vehicle collisions average more than $2,000 per incident in claims costs, and drivers pay a good portion of many claims in the form of deductibles.

You can often avoid colliding with deer by taking these simple precautions:

• Watch for deer crossing signs and drive with particular care in these areas.

• Deer travel in groups. If you see one, be aware that others will follow.

• Most crashes involving deer occur at dawn and dusk. Be especially cautious for deer during these times.

• Use your high beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic to help illuminate deer's eyes.

• If you see a deer, slow down and blow your horn one long blast to frighten the deer away.

• Don't swerve to avoid hitting deer - that could put you into a lane of oncoming traffic or off the road. Brake firmly and maintain control of your vehicle.

• Always wear your safety belt.

• Always drive defensively and at a safe speed.