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How to avoid deer on Kentucky roads this fall

On Behalf of | Oct 24, 2024 | Car Accidents |

Autumn inspires a noticeable uptick in animal activity. Deer are often on the move in the fall. Between the impending winter cold and earlier sunsets, drivers are more at risk of having a dangerous encounter with a deer in the fall than they are in the summer. Kentucky drivers may benefit from a brief refresher on how to stay safe around deer, especially if they find themselves traveling on rural roads during transitional times of the day.

How can motorists reduce their risk of a crash involving a deer this autumn?

Use high beams whenever possible

Reduced visibility when the sun sets is one of the main risk factors for a car-deer collision. The standard headlights on a motor vehicle may not allow a driver to see a deer from far enough away to come to a complete stop when traveling at 55 miles per hour or more. High beams can catch the eyes of deer far ahead on the road and make it easier for motorists to slow down or stop when there are deer present.

Use the horn to clear the road

Deer have a very strong startle reflex. Although they do sometimes freeze when scared, most instinctively run. Applying the horn by using short bursts can prompt deer to clear the road before a driver reaches them.

Prepare for the chance of a crash

Drivers need to acknowledge that a crash could occur even if they try to avoid deer. There are two important things to remember. The first is to wear a seatbelt, as the crash could lead to a driver getting thrown out of the vehicle. The second is to not swerve. Drivers who swerve can lose control of their vehicles, which can lead to much worse outcomes than simply striking a 100-pound doe.

Understand deer behavior

Deer tend to travel in groups. If one has just crossed the road, there could be others coming. Slowing down when there is a deer crossing ahead is a smart move even when there aren’t other deer visible yet. Additionally, drivers want to be particularly proactive in areas that are likely to see high levels of deer activity. Areas where wooded spaces transition into pastures or open fields tend to see increased deer activity. Deer may also congregate near orchards and corn fields in particular.

Even drivers who avoid deer themselves can end up in motor vehicle collisions if another motorist makes a mistake and swerves into oncoming traffic. Prioritizing safety and being ready to demand accountability from other drivers are both important for those on the roads this autumn in Kentucky.