Page 37 - AAA Magazine – AAA Ohio Auto Club – September 2018

DEER CROSSING
Autumn requires extra vigilance on the road.
By Jessica Barga
iStock.com/Pascal-L-Marius
WHAT TO DO IF YOU
HIT A DEER
The white-tailed deer is a typical sight in Ohio through much of the year, especially the fall. But when you’re driving, you might wish it wasn’t so common. According to the Highway Loss Data Institute, the number of insurance claims because of animal-vehicle collisions peaks each November.
Fortunately, you can take steps to keep yourself deer-free on the roads. Stay alert, sweep your eyes across the road for signs of animals and use high beams at night when there isn’t oncoming traffic; the light can help you see animals sooner or reflect off their eyes. If you do spot one, slow down and keep your eyes open for more, as deer often travel in herds.
Gary Comer, wildlife management supervisor for central Ohio’s Division of Natural Resources, advises people to be aware of their surroundings, especially around dawn and dusk, when deer are most active.
“Pay attention to deer crossing signs – they pop up because people have hit deer there,” said Comer. “And rural areas aren’t the only places you need to be aware. Large urban areas also can be home to deer.”
If you do spot a deer, or a collision is imminent, remember a few simple rules to keep yourself safe.
“My advice is don’t attempt to swerve. Most (deer collision) accidents that end with injuries are because people try to avoid the deer,” said Comer. Instead, apply the brakes as much as is safe to reduce your speed while staying in your lane.
If you hit a deer or if you see an injured one in the middle of the road, call the police immediately. Whatever you do, never approach a wounded animal – it can be unpredictable.
“Being from the country, you have to be on high alert when you’re driving,” said Chelsea Creque, social media coordinator at AAA Ohio Auto Club. “There have been a lot of times I’ve had to slam on the brakes, and I’ve had some family members who totaled their cars by hitting deer.”
Finally, make sure your insurance will protect you in case of an accident.
Comprehensive insurance covers an array of situations, including animal collisions — read more on page 37, including steps to take if you hit a deer.
Jessica Barga is Brand Management coordinator for AAA Ohio.
SEPTEMBER 2018 | 35
MOVE YOUR VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, AWAY FROM THE ANIMAL.
CALL THE POLICE AND LET THEM KNOW WHAT HAPPENED.
STAY AWAY FROM THE DEER AND WAIT FOR THE POLICE TO ARRIVE.
CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY AND FILE A CLAIM.
DOUBLE-CHECK YOUR CAR TO MAKE SURE IT’S SAFE TO DRIVE.
INFORMATION PROVIDED BY PROGRESSIVE CASUALTY INSURANCE COMPANY.