Defensive driving is a collection of behaviors that reduce a driver’s risk of being involved in an accident. We do many of these behaviors automatically, such as observing the speed limit, maintaining a safe following distance, and limiting distractions. These techniques keep us safe from other motorists but also protect us from road hazards and wildlife, like deer – a common animal that drivers encounter.
Rut Season
October marks the beginning of deer breeding season, or rut season. Because of this, drivers see a spike in deer activity in the fall. Deer are more likely to cross roads and highways as bucks either pursue a potential mate or compete against another male for a doe’s affection. The Insurance Information Institute states that Pennsylvania leads the nation with the highest deer-vehicle accidents totaling 166,404 claims in 2021. In the same year, West Virginia had the highest rate of collisions — 1 in 37 drivers had an accident with an animal.
Driving Tips
Companies with a fleet of vehicles should implement policies to protect their drivers and others on the road. Below are a few safety tips that you can use to keep yourself and others safe:
- Do not speed.
- Traveling the speed limit will allow you to stop your vehicle sooner than if you were speeding.
- Keep your eyes on the road.
- Avoid distractions while driving so you can stay focused and react to situations quicker, like deer running in front of your vehicle.
- Make sure you can see.
- You can see deer quicker with your high beams on than just with your headlights; remember to turn them off for oncoming traffic.
- Do not swerve to avoid hitting a deer.
- You can lose control of your vehicle if you swerve to avoid a deer. Drivers will often hit something else, such as stationary objects (trees, telephone poles) or even other vehicles, leading to injuries or even death.
- Wear your seatbelt
- Although wearing your seatbelt will not help you avoid a collision, it will help protect you if you are involved in one.