Oh, deer! Do you drive down roads where deer live? Not only can deer-car collisions hurt or kill deer, but they can do serious damage to your car and even to you. There are about 1.5 million such collisions per year. Here's what to do if it's you:
1. Get your deer-dar on. The best way to deal with a deer accident is to avoid it to begin with. Deer are more active in the evenings and early mornings, and especially so in the spring during mating season. Where there's one deer there are likely to be more nearby—slow down and proceed with caution. Deer tend to panic near cars, so take that into account as well. Don't rely on deer whistles.
2. Don't swerve. Expert advice says it's better to hit the deer than a tree at the side of the road or a car in the oncoming lane. Hang onto the wheel and apply your brakes smoothly without totally stomping on them.
3. Is it dead? A hurt, stunned deer can deliver a pretty nasty kick; stay clear and dial 9-1-1. Get your vehicle off the road if you can, set your hazard lights a-blinking, and get help to attend to the deer and tow your car if need be.
4. Can I eat it? I know a guy who fed his family every winter from roadkill. Ask the police arriving on the scene for a permit to keep the meat if you're so inclined. I'd opt for a decent burial and a nice memorial service, but not everybody's squeamish like me.
5. The big picture. In many parts of the U.S. deer are considered pests and a threat to plant biodiversity—municipalities actively reduce populations. Knowing that doesn't help that big dent in your car, though.
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