Areas where there are deer, and other large animals live pose an extra hazard when driving. The Insurance Information Institute reports that over 1.6 million deer-vehicle collisions occur each year, and these accidents cause vehicle damage, injuries, and even fatalities at a cost in the neighborhood of $4.6 billion. Many of

these accidents occur during the breeding season, also called “the rut.” This season usually lasts from late October to as long as early January in most of Canada, with late October to the end of November being the peak.

Deer & Moose Safe Driving Tips

1. Always wear your seatbelt. Seatbelts are proven to save lives in a crash.
2. Slowdown in areas where you know deer are usually present and road signs are located. Wildlife are often animals of habit and can be found in the same areas at the same time of day. Deer/Moose are often found near roadways during the early morning hours and at dusk.
3. Apply your brakes early as possible if a deer is near or on the road. Even if the animal passes the roadway well in front of your vehicle slow down. Deer are herd animals, and where one is found, there is most likely another.
4. Do not swerve to miss striking an animal. An accident involving another motorist, or a fixed object will have larger consequences than if you were to hit the deer.
5. Never get out in an attempt to help a wounded wildlife. If the deer/moose is still alive, you can be injured. Contact the proper authorities to handle the animal, so it is not a hazard to other motorists.

These safe driving principles can also be applied to areas where other animals exist. Animals such as elk  pose some of the same hazards as deer do to motorists.