OPP Encourage Drivers To Not Veer For Deer

Sunday, 13 October 2019 08:47

OPP says deer-vehicle collision rates increase significantly 1.5 hours during sunset and sunrise. And although there are signs to warn drivers of higher deer-travelled areas, they need to be aware everywhere.

NORFOLK COUNTY - OPP are urging all drivers to not veer for deer.

They are once again encouraging motorists to be alert and aware of their surroundings following several investigations of vehicle collisions involving deer.

Deer-vehicle collision rates increase significantly 1.5 hours during sunset and sunrise. And although there are signs to warn drivers of higher deer-travelled areas, they need to be aware everywhere.

OPP says deer don't just appear on rural roads, but they have been known to cross the busy road as well.

Constable Ed Sanchuk says veering for deer can result in harming yourself or damaging your vehicle.

"If you suddenly have a deer in your path, we encourage drivers to stay in control, reduce as much speed as possible, and whatever you do, steer straight. Don't veer for the deer. By changing your direction quickly, you increase the risk of losing control, running off the roadway and rolling your vehicle. This increases the likelihood of sustaining greater damage to your vehicle and serious injury."

Detachment Commander Joseph Varga says there are many ways to reduce these collisions.

"We are committed to educating all drivers in Norfolk County and surrounding areas. Although at times it may seem that the deer come out of nowhere, with a little knowledge and improved driving skill, there are many things drivers can do to prevent car-deer collisions."

OPP have provide the following hints to ensure a safe journey during this time of year:

- Look all around, not just straight ahead. Deer will often run across the road from ditches and protected areas such as stream corridors and woodlots.

- Where you see one deer, expect more. Deer often travel in herds.

- Slow down. The slower you go, the more time you have to react should you encounter a deer.

- Deer can move across roads at any time of the day or year but anticipate higher deer movements in the fall and around sunrise & sunset.

- Watch for glowing eyes of deer at night.

- Don't veer for deer. Should a deer run into the path of your vehicle, reduce your speed quickly, steer straight and stay in control.

- Remove all distractions. Give yourself the best chance possible to see and predict where deer might go.

- Buckle up. If you need to stop in a hurry, you want your body restrained to prevent unnecessary injury or possibly death.