Steer clear of deer

Deer-vehicle collisions peak during the fall months, but you need to be careful year-round. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has advice for avoiding collisions when deer are nearby:

• Always maintain a safe amount of distance between your vehicle and others, especially at night. If the vehicle ahead of you hits a deer, you could become involved in the crash.
• Most deer-vehicle collisions occur where the animals are more likely to travel: near bridges or overpasses, railroad tracks, streams, and ditches.
• Deer often travel in small groups, so if you see one, be alert for others.
• Drive with high beams on when possible and watch for deer eyes reflecting in your headlights.
• If you see deer near a road, slow down and blow your horn with one long blast.
• Slow down in areas posted with deer-crossing signs and in heavily wooded areas, especially during the late afternoon and evening.
• Don’t swerve to avoid a collision. Swerving could cause you to lose control of your vehicle and lead to a more serious crash.
• If your vehicle strikes a deer, don’t touch the animal. A frightened and wounded deer can be dangerous. Get your vehicle off the road, if possible, and call 911.