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Tips For Dealing With Deer On The Road

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Deer cause about 1 million traffic accidents per year, making them one of the biggest menaces you’ll encounter on the road. Deer are a threat to all drivers, but with as much time as truck drivers spend on the road, we encounter more than our fair share. That’s why we’ve assembled some tips to help you avoid or minimize the risk that deer pose while you’re on the road.

Deer In The Road? Here’s What Truck Drivers Should Do

— Be prepared. Deer are more active at dusk, late at night and early in the morning. Be extra vigilant at these times. And it pays to slow down when you see animal crossing signs.

— If you see one deer, look for more. Deer tend to travel in groups, so if you see one deer, slow down. You’re very likely to encounter more.

— Flash your lights and hit your horn. If a deer seems frozen in front of you, hit the brakes, then use your headlights and horn to try to alert the animal. This doesn’t always work, but it can help sometimes.

— Never swerve. No one wants to hit an animal, but you’re risking your life and the lives of other drivers if you swerve to avoid hitting one. Hitting a deer directly prevents a more dangerous accident and helps to minimize damage to your truck.

Drivers, have you encountered deer in your truck? What are your tips to deal with deer in the road?

Sources:
Slate
Oregon DMV

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