Pennsylvania #4 in the U.S. for Deer Collisions

Drivers in Pennsylvania have a higher chance of hitting a deer than almost anywhere else in the country – we rank 4th in the U.S.

According to PennDOT, there were 3,487 hit-deer crashes in Pennsylvania in 2014; nine of those deer collisions resulted in fatalities.

A deer collision can cause costly damage, but what’s worse is when a deer in the road causes a multi-vehicle car crash. The odds of encountering a deer in the road double beginning in October, when breeding season begins. Drivers in our home region of Northeast PA are likely familiar with the risk of hitting a deer, but some extra alertness and defensive driving can help motorists avoid deer.

Here are some tips and reminders:

• Keep your eyes focused on the road ahead of you. Scan the horizon and the shoulder ahead, not just directly in front of your vehicle.
• Slow down in rural, winding, and poorly-lit areas, or wherever deer-crossing signs are posted. Even if you see a deer ahead, you won’t be able to stop in time if you’re driving too fast.
• Be especially vigilant at dawn and dusk.
• To improve visibility, use high beams in dark areas when there is no oncoming traffic.

If you see a deer in the road…

• Slow down or come to a stop to avoid hitting the deer. BUT don’t attempt to swerve around it and risk driving into oncoming traffic or accidentally flipping your vehicle.
• Remember that deer usually travel in groups, so if you see one deer cross the road, slow down and be prepared to stop because another may be following close behind.
• If the deer is stopped on the road, honk your horn to encourage it to move. Stay in your lane and don’t attempt to drive around it.
• If a collision is unavoidable, apply the brakes and stay in your lane. It is better to hit the deer than to risk hitting an oncoming car or overturning your own.

And, as always, remain awake, alert, and sober while driving.

If you are hurt in a car accident and another driver is at fault, contact our office for a free consultation. We are available day or night at 855-866-5529. Or, fill out our email contact form and we will answer you as soon as possible.