Commuter Life

You’re not the only one enjoying the warm spring weather.

Deer are also becoming more active, and that could be bad news for drivers.

Here are some tips from the Thruway Authority, and what to do if you do hit one:

1. Deer are most energetic at dawn and dusk.
2. Scan shoulders of the roadside for deer eyes reflecting light.
3. Do not rely on high beams or honking your horn to warn deer.
4. Slow down when approaching deer standing at the roadside; they may run into oncoming traffic.
5. Deer often use woodlots, fencerows, field edges or areas near water. Extra caution is needed when these habitats are close to the Thruway.
6. Deer frequently travel in groups. Where there is one, there may be more.
7. Always buckle your seat belt. Ejection from a vehicle is the main reason that fatalities occur in a collision.
8. If a collision is unavoidable, hold onto the steering wheel; do not swerve to avoid hitting the deer. Bring vehicle to a complete stop. The most serious vehicle versus deer accidents occur when drivers swerve at high speeds to elude a deer, and then strike another vehicle, a tree or roll over.
9. If you are involved in a vehicle versus deer collision, do not attempt to approach or touch the deer.

Have you ever hit a deer while driving?  Do you have any tips for drivers? Share your story.

(Photo credit: Peter Carr, The Journal News/LoHud.com)