HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) – Kansas officials say November is peak season for deer-vehicle collisions, and they’re warning drivers not to swerve abruptly to avoid hitting the animal because that could cause more serious crashes.
Ron Kaufman is a spokesman for the state Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. He says deer move more often in the fall because they mate and seek new food sources.
The Hutchinson News reports the state transportation department says deer-related crashes comprised 16.5% of the total vehicle crashes in 2018.
Kansas Highway Patrol Lt. Adam Winters says it’s best for a driver to hit a deer if they encounter one, rather than try to avoid it, which can lead to losing control of vehicle or colliding into oncoming traffic.
In preparation for the season, here are safe driving tips to keep you and your loved ones safe on the roadways:
- Drive cautiously during dusk and dawn.
- Look for ‘DEER XING’ signs.
- If you see one deer, stay alert for others.
- If no oncoming traffic at night, turn on your high beams.
- Don’t swerve to avoid hitting the deer.
- Report any deer-vehicle collision
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