A reminder has been issued to drivers in New York that deer and moose will become more common as the fall season continues.
The reminder was issued by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Environmental Conservation.
According to officials with the state, between October and December, animals are more likely to enter the roadway.
This is the case for deer especially because it’s breeding season.
More about deer season and road safety
According to My Twin Tiers, the University at Albany’s Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research had data supporting this claim.
41% of the crashes in 2021 that happened with deer occurred between October and December.
It’s important to look out for the deer crossing road signs because they’re often placed where accidents involving deer have happened.
Deer and other animals are the most active at dawn and dusk, creating a higher risk due to lower visibility and higher traffic.
If you see the animal, make sure to slow down because they can immediately and quickly change direction at any given moment.
Should a deer cross the road in front of you, slow down and look for more deer because they normally travel in groups.
For those who do see the animals, try to warn other drivers using your lights or hazards by flashing them.
Sometimes you end up in a situation where the deer is right in front of you. You should brake firmly but avoid swerving. If you jerk your wheel you could hit another car or a tree. For those who do end up hitting the animal, stay away from it. It could be scared and use its legs to hurt you.
You should move your car to a safer spot and turn on your hazards. Stay away from the road and traffic if you exit your vehicle. Call the police to report if traffic is being blocked and fill out a crash report if necessary.
Finally, do not assume your car is safe to drive. Check it over and call for a tow truck if necessary.
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