When it comes to U.S. states with the most deer-vehicle accidents, Pennsylvania ranks fourth out of all fifty states.
According to State Farm’s annual report, nearly 1.2 million deer collisions occurred from July 2014 to June 2015. Out of these crashes, 126,275 happened in Pennsylvania.
Although West Virginia is number one for the most deer collisions, Pennsylvania has remained in the top six since the annual study first began over ten years ago.
Due to the onset of mating season, as well as falling temperatures, deer are particularly active in Pennsylvania from October through December. During this time, most deer spend their days socializing and feeding in preparation for the upcoming winter.
Deer are active from dusk until dawn during the fall season, therefore Pennsylvania drivers adjusting to Daylight-Savings should be particularly careful during this time.
Because Keystone State drivers are apt to experience car-deer collisions, they should abide by important safety tips to minimize car crashes and fatalities caused by wildlife.
Here are seven tips to help you avoid a deer collision while driving in Pennsylvania:
Wear your seatbelt—This safety tip is a necessity for both passengers and drivers. If you happen to hit wildlife while driving, your seatbelt may reduce the risk of serious injury or death.
Turn on your high beams—When travelling on rural roads with no other vehicles around, turn on your vehicle’s high beams. Deer eyes reflect light, therefore bright headlights make the deer easier to see.
Avoid swerving—If you swerve to avoid wildlife, you could roll your vehicle, run off the road or drive into oncoming traffic.
Know PA herd animals—Deer usually travel together, so if you spot one deer, slow down and be on the lookout for more.
Stop—If you see a deer in the road, stop your vehicle and honk the horn in short, quick blasts.
Scan roadsides—When traveling in Pennsylvania, scan the roads from left to right to look for deer.
Contact police—If you’re involved in a car-deer collision, contact the police and your insurance company as soon as possible.
Deer-vehicle accidents can be a frightening experience. If you’ve been involved in a car-deer collision, contact the experienced car accident lawyers at the law firm of Schmidt Kramer today.
Call (717) 888-8888 or fill out our FREE Case Evaluation Form today.