As the holiday season approaches, deer mating season does also. In addition to reminding people to drive safely, officials are warning motorists be cautious of wild animals running into the roads.
Vehicle versus deer accidents are more likely later in the year, which coincides with hunting and mating seasons. Deer-related accidents in Tennessee rose 3.9 percent from 2013 to 2014, resulting in one fatality.
Avoiding a Car Accident During Deer Season
The Tennessee Highway Patrol and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency are warning drivers to exercise caution while on the roads over the next few months in efforts to reduce deer-related accident occurrences. Following these tips is highly suggested:
- Deer move more frequently during mating season, typically at dusk and dawn; exercise caution especially during these hours.
- Deer often cross the road in groups; always be mindful that more deer could be following. Often, its the second or third deer crossing that is involved in a crash, not the first.
- If you see a deer, slow down and proceed at a low speed until you pass them.
- Drive defensively and scan the side of the road for roaming wildlife.
- Never swerve to avoid hitting a deer, as this could cause your vehicle to roll or enter oncoming traffic lanes, leading to a more severe accident.
- If you are in an accident involving a deer, do not approach the injured deer as they could still harm you.
2014 Tennessee Statistics on Deer Accidents
- 6,429 accidents involving dear occurred in 2014; a 3.9 percent increase over 2013 accident numbers.
- Injuries resulted from 306 of these accidents.
- Property damage resulted from 6,122 deer-related accidents.
- One fatality occurred from a deer-related accident in 2014.
- Deer-related accidents have risen over 10 percent since 2010.
What to Do After a Deer-Related Accident
If you are involved in a deer-related accident, contact the Tennessee Highway Patrol for assistance by dialing *847.
If you have been injured due to another drivers negligence, contact the experienced Knoxville car accident attorneys at Greg Coleman Law today. A personal injury lawyer from our firm will fight to get the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
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