Beware of Deer on the Roadway

Fall brings cooler weather, college football, beautiful fall foliage and deer. Now is the time of year when traveling brings an increased risk of vehicle vs. deer accident.  The Pennsylvania Turnpike, like most roads in Pennsylvania (and across the Country) see vehicle accident with injuries, property damage and in some case fatalities.

State Farm's data shows that November, the heart of the deer migration and mating season, is the month during which deer-vehicle accidents are most likely. More than 18 percent of all such mishaps take place during the 30 days of November. An accident between a deer and a vehicle will occur once every five seconds in the United States in November (roughly equivalent to the time it took you to read this sentence). Deer vehicle collisions are three times more likely to occur on a day in November than they are on any day between February 1st and August 31st. October is the second most likely month for an accident involving a deer and a vehicle. December is third.

Staying safe on the road can be a challenge, especially when it involves an unexpected deer or other animal jumping across the road. State Farm estimates over 1.25 million auto-deer collision claims occurred in the U.S. between July 1, 2014 and June 30, 2015. These accidents were costly for drivers, with a national cost per claim average of $4,135. Whether you’re driving on the Pennsylvania Turnpike or on local roads, here are some tips to keep you safe on the road.

Safe Driving Tips

Deer and vehicle collisions are especially commonplace between October and November when deer are moving to find food and to breed. Drivers should be aware of this danger and take the necessary precautions to remain accident-free.

• Remain alert at all times and watch out for deer and other animals.
• Slow down if you see a deer up ahead, as it is generally unpredictable.
• Slow down at designated deer crossing areas marked by road signs. These signs indicate that the area has a lot of deer traffic and an increased potential for accidents.
• Watch your speed, especially during dusk and at night.
• Use your high beams at night to see deer easier if it will not interfere with oncoming traffic.
• Have your vehicle’s brakes and tires checked regularly to ensure that they are in safe working order.
• Watch out for movement and shiny eyes on the roadsides. Reduce your speed if you see anything suspicious.
• If you see deer in front of you, do not swerve because it may because you to hit another vehicle, guide rail or lose control all together. BRAKE!
• Reduce speed on blind curve areas of the roadway.
• Always wear a seat belt; it’s your best safety defense.

In the event that your vehicle collides with a deer:

• Move your vehicle to a safe place. If possible, pull over to the side of the road, and turn on your hazard lights. If you must leave your vehicle, stay off the road and out of the way of any oncoming vehicles. Deer are most active at dusk and dawn, times when you or your vehicle may be less visible to other motorists. Call *11 on the Pennsylvania Turnpike or 9-1-1
• Call *11 on the Pennsylvania Turnpike or 9-1-1 to alert authorities if the deer is blocking traffic and creating a threat for other drivers. If the accident results in injury or property damage, you will need to report the accident. .
• If your vehicle is able to be driven and there are no injuries, under Pennsylvania law it is considered a non-reportable accident. Call your insurance company, it is not necessary to contact the State Police
• Stay away from the animal. A frightened, wounded deer could use its powerful legs and sharp hooves to harm you.
• Remember, accident happen but you can reduce your chances of being involved by being prepared and keeping alert.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission urges all motorists to keep alert and stay safe on America's First Super Highway.

*Image used is from ksoutdoors.com; Data used is from State Farm Insurance which sponsors the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission's State Farm Safety Patrol.