Motorists at Risk of Serious or Fatal Accident During Deer Season
January 4, 2012
A 19-year-old Wisconsin driver was transported to the hospital with undetermined injuries following a one-vehicle rollover accident at approximately 5:20 p.m. on December 28. Although the accident is still under investigation, it appears that the driver lost control of his vehicle when he swerved to avoid hitting a deer. His Plymouth Neo flipped several times before landing in a ditch.
As roads are built through rural areas, wildlife habitat decreases and automobile travel increases. When this happens, the risk of deer-auto accidents increases; many result in serious injuries even death to drivers and passengers. Typically, deer-auto accidents occur between October and December, with most accidents between dusk and dawn.
It is hard to imagine yourself or someone you love being seriously injured or killed in a deer-auto accident, but they can, and do happen. As in any situation, attentive driving is the best way to avoid an auto accident with a deer. Additionally, motorists can minimize the risk of a serious or fatal accident by staying alert and being especially watchful in areas near woods and water. Remember that if you see one deer, there are probably others nearby. Pay particular attention at dusk and dawn. Maintaining a safe speed will also increase your chances of avoiding an auto accident with a deer.
Drivers should never swerve to avoid hitting a deer. If you think you have time to avoid hitting an animal, reduce speed, tap the brakes to warn drivers behind you, and sound your horn. Swerving to miss a deer can potentially put you at risk for hitting another vehicle or losing control of your own car. Your odds of surviving an accident are better hitting an animal than another vehicle. And, don’t forget to always wear your seatbelt. Reports show that 60% of fatal accidents with deer were the result of people not wearing a seatbelt.
Litigation Funding Corp. strongly encourages motorists to buckle up, stay alert of your surroundings, and avoid driver distractions especially throughout the winter months.