That’s because it’s the peak breeding season.
Towson, Md (KM) The fall is usually the time when there are more collisions between deer and motor vehicles, with a majority of them taking place in November. “Right, we’re in the deer mating season, also known as the rut,” says Christine Delise, spokeswoman for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “And the peak breeding season occurs from November 10th to the 25th, and that’s when we typically see a spike in deer-vehicle collisions.”
The auto club says these collision usually occur in the early morning hours and at dusk., when deer are most active.
When out driving, Delise says it’s important for drivers to scan the road and the shoulders up ahead, and be on the lookout for deer.
Other tips include being aware that deer travel in herds, and if you see one, there are probably other deer not too far away. If there are no oncoming drivers, AAA recommends you use your high beams at night to better see any animal up ahead. It will give you more time to slow down, move over or honk your horn to scare them away. In addition, use extra caution when traveling through areas with a lot of wildlife activity, and in regions where roads divide agriculture land from forested areas.
If you encounter a deer on the road, Delise says don’t swerve. “Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid hitting an animal, and they end up hitting another vehicle or lose control of their cars,” she says. Instead, firmly apply your brakes and remain in your lane.
After you strike a deer or other animal, use your cell phone camera to take pictures to present to your insurance company for any claims. Also, do not move an injured animal. It may panic and seriously injure someone. Instead, call the police or animal control, AAA advises.
Before heading out, Delise says check with your insurance company to see if you’re covered if your vehicle strikes a deer. “Collision coverage, which is standard, what we all have, will not cover a vehicle in an animal collision. You need to have comprehensive coverage which is optional to motorists. And only that type of coverage will reimburse drivers for loss due to contact with animals,” she says.
AAA says the average claim submitted by Maryland motorists in 2017 following a collision with a deer is $4,000.
By Kevin McManus