Don't Veer for Deer

Dufferin County, ON (OPP - Dufferin Detachment) Officers from the Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind motorists that with the increase in deer movement during the fall months, drivers need to be more alert. Knowing how deer move during this time of year could be essential in avoiding a collision.

Listed are a few simple tips for motorists which can significantly reduce your chance of a deer collision.

• Be attentive of your surroundings when driving, especially from sunset to midnight and during the hours shortly before and after sunrise. These are the highest risk times for deer-vehicle collisions.

• Drive with caution when moving through deer-crossing zones. Deer seldom run alone. If you see one deer, others are likely nearby.

• When driving at night, use your high beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic. The high beams will better illuminate the eyes of deer on or near the road.

• Do not rely on devices such as deer whistles, deer fences or reflectors to scare away deer.

• Don’t Veer for Deer. Hold your steering wheel with two hands, brake firmly and come to a controlled stop. Swerving for a deer could lead to a loss of control and a much more serious collision with a tree, hydro pole or another oncoming vehicle.

Remember, your first priority is the safety of you and your passengers.