Deer in the Headlights: Avoiding Animal-Vehicle Collisions
Written by Jay M. Kelley III in Accident & Injury, Automobile, Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident on June 8, 2021
Nearly hitting (or actually colliding with) an animal on the road is a nerve-racking experience. The fact is, animal-vehicle collisions are sad, dangerous and costly. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimates there are more than 1.5 million deer-vehicle collisions each year, resulting in 150 human deaths, tens of thousands of injuries and more than $1 billion in vehicle damages.
It is important for drivers to use caution and remain alert to avoid becoming involved in a collision with wildlife.
What should you do if an animal runs in front of your vehicle? Follow these tips from AAA:
- Scan the road and shoulders ahead of you.
- Looking ahead helps provide enough reaction time if an animal is spotted.
- Also, remember some animals move in groups. When there is one, there are usually more in the area.
- Use your brights if there is no oncoming traffic.
- Wildlife may be spotted sooner when using high beams. This will give you time to slow down, move over or honk the horn to scare the animal(s) away.
- High beams also help in spotting some animals’ reflective eyes.
- If a collision is unavoidable, apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane.
- Swerving to avoid an animal can often cause a more serious crash or result in drivers losing control of vehicles.
- Use extra caution at dawn and dusk.
- Most animals, especially deer, tend to be more active early in the morning and at dusk.
- Wear a seat belt and remain awake, alert and sober.
Source: AAA
Jay M. Kelley III - Managing Partner
Meet Jay M. Kelley III, a top medical malpractice attorney in Ohio with over 25 years of experience and $200 million in verdicts and settlements. He leads Elk + Elk’s litigation strategy in state and federal courts and has a unique background as a former felony prosecutor and hospital defense lawyer. Jay specializes in complex cases, including birth injuries and wrongful death, and is recognized by Best Lawyers and ranked among the Super Lawyers Top 10 in Ohio.
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