Each fall the annual crop harvest coupled with the beginning of hunting
season and “rut”--deer mating
season--makes deer movement more prominent and the number of car-vs.-deer
crashes increase.
The Indiana State Police is reminding motorists to use extra caution when
driving in rural areas of the state.
Deer are generally more active in the early morning (pre-dawn) hours or the
hours just after dusk but could be on the move at anytime. So motorists
should take the following precautions:
* When possible use high beam headlights at night and be aware that deer
could be standing on or near the side of the roadway.
* Drivers should watch approaching vehicles and observe what may break their
headlights beams; it could be a passing deer. This technique allows extra
time to slow your speed and be alert for the deer.
* Watch for reflections from the deer’s eyes.
* Where there is one deer there are often several. Do not assume you missed
the deer because more could follow. Be alert.
* If your vehicle strikes a deer, do not touch it. A frightened or wounded
deer can cause you serious bodily injury. Remain in your car, make sure you
and your passengers are safe, and call the police to obtain a crash report
for your insurance company. You should report this as you would any other
crash.
* Make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up.
For more information concerning deer habits, population, and trends in your
area contact your local conservation officer or the Indiana Department of
Natural Resources Division of Fish and Wildlife at
www.in.gov/dnr/
or (317) 232-4200.