Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Oh Deer Part II: What to do in a car/deer crash

The holidays are approaching quickly, and travel across the state is expected to increase. More travelers could mean an increase in deer/vehicle crashes. 

Last month, we provided a few tips on how to be alert for deer and avoid a collision with one of these animals.

Unfortunately, because deer can be unpredictable or because weather conditions are not favorable, crashes involving vehicles and deer do happen. What can you do if you find yourself in this situation?

  • If you encounter a situation where a deer suddenly jumps in front of your vehicle it is better to hit the deer rather than swerve to avoid it. According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, more serious crashes happen as a result of swerving away from the animal. 
  • After a crash, slow down and pull onto the shoulder. Turn on your emergency flashers
  • DO NOT get out of your vehicle unless you have to. Staying inside the vehicle and buckled up is your best protection against a secondary crash.
  • If you must exit your vehicle, wait for traffic to clear and stand as far from the road as possible.
  • Do not try to remove the deer from the roadway unless you are sure it is dead. If the animal is still alive, it could be dangerous. 
  •  Call 911 or *47 and tell the dispatcher where you are and if the deer is in the road.
  •  Don't worry about the animal, law enforcement will have it removed. 

For more information on deer/vehicle safety click here

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