Lights out! (fb)

Autumn is upon us and that means there will be an uptick in deer being hit by cars. This is due to not just changes in deer behavior, but changes in human behavior and changes in hours of daylight. Only 20% of deer/vehicle collisions occur during daylight hours with dusk and dawn being the most dangerous. As the days get shorter more drivers going to and from work are on the road during those "non-daylight" hours. Collisions also are more each month during the full moon since deer will cover more distance with the extra illumination and are more likely to cross roads. Then throw in the Fall rut where males are in hot pursuit of females to mate. That means lots of bucks chasing does and both parties running with wild abandon sometimes right in front of cars. Some folks swear by "deer whistles", but testing data from the University of Georgia does not show that they are effective. The only proven measures drivers can take to reduce the chance of deer-vehicle collisions and lessen the severity of those that do occur are: Buckle Up - the safest place to be in any accident is inside the car so be sure you stay there. Slow Down - especially when driving at dawn and dusk in areas known to be rife with deer. High Beams - at night, in the absence of oncoming traffic, provide the best possible visibility. Scan Shoulders - you’re more likely to see deer in time to respond if you watch the areas where they congregate. Don’t Swerve - it’s unlikely you’ll save the animal, and you’ll probably make things worse for yourself, your passengers, and other drivers. #wildlifeeducation #wildliferehab #deer #collision (fb)