Drivers Beware... Bambi Runs There!!!!

Will Parker

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Drivers Beware…. Bambi Runs There!!!!!

Dropping tempatures, less tourists, and shorter days can only mean one thing… fall has arrived. I love the fall. I love football. I love deer….especially venison, but that is beside the point. Though a great time of year for many besides myself, there is a downfall…an increase in the number of collisions, injuries and deaths resulting from deer-related car crashes. Their migration and mating season runs from October through December. This time period results in a dramatic increase in the number of deer-related accidents.

“Drivers should be especially cautious just before and after sunrise and from sunset to midnight when deer tend to be moving more. Also, buckle up and pay attention to all deer crossing signs,” states the South Carolina Insurance News Service.

Statistics show each year there are more than 1.5 million deer-auto collisions resulting in tens of thousands of injuries along and approximately 150 deaths. These accidents, totaling over 1 billion dollars in vehicle damage nationwide, are a serious concern. Insurance companies, covering the damages under your comprehensive portion of your automobile policy estimate the average cost per claim $2,600 nationwide, but can run as high as $11,000.

The South Carolina Insurance News Service suggests taking these precautions while driving:

• Drive with caution in posted areas and in areas known to have a large deer population - especially in the early morning and evening hours.
• If you see a deer cross the road, look for others. Deer often move in groups.
• If you think you’re going to hit a deer, then brake firmly and stay in your lane. If you swerve to avoid it, the results can be even worse. If you hit the deer, do not touch it. Call the police immediately to report the incident.
• Use your high-beam headlights to see the eyes of the deer better on and near the roadway. Also, blow your horn to frighten the deer away.
• Heed deer crossing signs, lower your speed, always buckle up and stay awake, alert and sober.
• Contact your insurance agent or company as quickly as possible to report any damage to your car.

So, for your sake (and Bambi’s, as well) please be careful or call me if you’re not!