Tips to Avoid Getting in a Deer Accident

Whether you are driving through the city of Williamsburg, VA or are in the rural outskirts of the city, there is a chance you will come upon a deer. The times when you are at the greatest risk of hitting a deer is during migration and mating season, which is generally between October and December. Deer are most often seen first thing in the morning and at dusk. The typical deer can weigh 200 pounds or more, so hitting one with your car can cause significant damage, even death. Here are a few tips to avoid getting in an accident with a deer.

Use High Beams

If you are driving in an area that is known to have deer, for the best visibility, it’s best to drive with your high beams on. This will allow you to have a better view of the side of the road as well as what’s ahead of you, but keep in mind that if another vehicle is approaching, be sure to turn your high beams off to avoid limiting the vision of the driver coming toward you.

Advance Slowly

If you see deer standing on or on the side of the road, advance slowly. Startling the deer can cause them to run in an attempt to avoid your vehicle. Unfortunately, they may run right in front of you. Keep in mind that not only is it possible for you to hit a deer, but deer can hit you. While trying to run, it is common for deer to ram into the side and even the top of a vehicle, so use extreme caution if you see a deer.

Sound the Horn & Flash the Lights

If there are deer in the middle of the road, do not attempt to go around them. Instead, slow down and flash your lights and sound the horn until the deer are out of harm’s way. If you must stop because of deer in the road, keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the deer and continue to sound the horn and flash the lights until they leave the road.

One of the most important things to keep in mind is that if you see one deer, there are probably several more in the area, so drive with extreme caution. If you can’t avoid colliding with a deer, try not to swerve; it will increase the chance of you losing control of your vehicle. If you do hit a deer, contact the proper authorities and Commonwealth Insurance Center as soon as possible.

Residents of Williamsburg, VA who want to learn more information about deer accidents should contact Commonwealth Insurance Center.