(SOUTHERN BRUCE COUNTY, ON) – The South Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) detachment is continuing to investigate vehicle collisions with deer. Typically, these types of collisions are more prevalent in the spring and fall; however, South Bruce OPP officers investigated 15 deer/vehicle crashes between July 1, 2012 and August 9, 2012. The majority of these crashes took place in low light conditions between 10:00 pm and 6:30 am. The following tips will help reduce the chances of hitting a deer:
Be especially attentive from sunset to midnight and during the hours shortly before and after sunrise. These are the highest risk times for deer-vehicle collisions.
Drive with caution when moving through areas known to have a large deer population. Remember – deer seldom run alone. If you see one deer, others may be nearby.
When driving at night, use high beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic. The high beams will better illuminate the eyes of deer on or near the roadway.
Slow down and blow your horn with one long blast to frighten the deer away.
Brake firmly when you notice a deer in or near your path, but stay in your lane. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or lose control of their cars.
Always wear your seat belt. Most people injured in deer-vehicle crashes were not wearing their seat belt.
Do not rely on devices such as deer whistles, deer fences and reflectors to deter deer. Slow down, stay in control and stay alert.
“The responsibility for avoiding collisions with wild animals on the road rests with the driver. Since deer are fast, agile creatures, you need more time to react. Focus on your driving – don’t let anything distract you. Collisions with deer can cause serious injury or death. You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to be alert and drive responsibly†– Inspector Scott Smith, Detachment Commander, South Bruce OPP.