This is peak deer season, and drivers are being reminded what they should do if a deer runs across the road in front of them. Berrien County Undersheriff Chuck Heit tells us you may be tempted to swerve, but that’s not the correct course. Then what should you do?
“It is a time to be alert, especially just after dusk through the evening hours and then early morning, when deer are moving more,” Heit said. “We ask people to use their high beams when there’s not oncoming traffic because that will help illuminate the eyes of the deer. One of the biggest things is to not swerve. Stay within your lane when you’re braking and don’t swerve to avoid any type of deer or animal.”
Heit says if you see one deer, there are probably more nearby. Therefore, it’s best to be ready to avoid another deer if you manage not to hit one. Heit says if you do hit a deer, call the police and don’t touch the animal. AAA says 10 people were killed in deer crashes last year. Another nearly 1,500people were injured in vehicle-deer crashes. In Michigan, vehicle-deer crashes are expensive, causing more than $130 million in damage annually. The state has a 2 million-strong deer herd, so watch out.
