Drivers may have very little time to react when deer linger, step onto, or leap across the roadway. Consider the following suggestions to reach your destination safely.

• Always wear a seatbelt, and insist that passengers do the same.
• Be vigilant, especially between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. when deer are most active.
• Drive with high beam headlights at night whenever possible.
• Deer crossing signs are often placed in areas where deer are common. Use caution in these areas.
• Slow down, and honk the horn if a deer appears along the roadside. More are probably nearby. Blasting the horn may send the deer in the opposite direction.
• Hit the deer straight on rather than swerving to avoid it. Apply brakes firmly, grasp the steering wheel tightly, and stay in your lane. Trying to dodge the deer increases the risk of crashing into a bridge, post, tree, or oncoming car. Serious injuries and major vehicle repairs are likely.
• Do not touch an injured deer. Call 911 for help. Request medical assistance for you and your passengers if anyone is hurt.