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 and catastrophic personal injury attorney in Ohio with over 30 years of experience and a proven track record of securing millions in verdicts and settlements. He leads Elk + Elk’s comprehensive litigation strategy across state, federal, and appellate courts, drawing on a unique background as a former felony prosecutor and hospital defense lawyer. Jay focuses on high-stakes, complex cases, including birth injuries and wrongful death, and is widely recognized by Best Lawyers and ranked among the Super Lawyers Top 10 in Ohio.

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