More Than Snow to Worry About, Deer Related Accidents are on the Rise

DRIVERS BEWARE… the rise in the deer population is causing an increase in deer related automobile accidents. According to Steve Schassler, DEC Region Four director, the current population of deer in New York State has grown to nearly 1,000,000.

1 million population in NYHere are a few basic safety measures to keep you safe and the number of deer related accidents at a minimum.

• Stay alert in the early morning and evening hours.
• Slow down… drive with caution.
• Use high beam headlights to make the deer’s eyes visible.
• Brake firmly when you notice a deer in the road. DO NOT swerve to avoid hitting the deer. By swerving, you could confuse the deer or lose control of your vehicle and cause additional damage and injury.
• Wear a seatbelt. Statistics show that most people injured in deer related accidents were not wearing seatbelts.
• Deer seldom run alone… check for additional deer entering the road.
   

While state and local wildlife agencies look for ways to control the deer population, protect you and your family by taking extra precaution when traveling on roadways.