Yes, you read that title right! Deer season is officially here in east Tennessee and if you drive on rural roads in the Knoxville area, you have probably seen some deer in the last couple of weeks. Deer are beautiful to see when in the Smokies or in a national park, but they’re not really something you want to see in the road. Keep reading for tips to prevent deer from hitting your car.
Deer in the headlights
If you see a deer in the highway, the worst thing you could do is to swerve your car to avoid hitting it. Also, don’t slam on the brakes. By avoiding the deer, you may put yourself at risk to have a car wreck with another vehicle by cutting into traffic, crashing into a tree, or other roadside objects.
Here are 3 tips to help you avoid a deer accident.
1. Be aware of deer
Deer are often out at dawn and dusk, so these are the times of the day when you should be aware of their presence. Watch for deer during this time as they often feed along the side of the road. Fall is also the mating season for deer, so you must be especially careful as you operate your vehicle on rural roadways and other areas with deer crossing signs.
2. Deer travel together – Be prepared
If you see one deer, it is likely that there are more. Deer travel together, in a single file line. If you spot one deer crossing a road, be prepared for others that may be following.
3. Be cautious in deer-populated areas
There should be warning signs in areas where deer are often found. Watch for these signs as you drive and be cautious in the areas where they are. It is also a good idea to reduce your speed as you drive through these areas in case you have to react quickly if you see one on the roadway.
The important thing for you to remember as you drive through deer populated areas is that it is better to strike a deer and cause damage to your vehicle than it is to veer off of the road or into traffic and cause damage to yourself and to others, which could be serious or fatal.
Call us for more tips to prevent deer from hitting your car
If you have any questions about the legal issues that may be involved with deer accidents, or if you were injured by a driver who was attempting to avoid a deer, call the Knoxville car accident lawyers with Hotz and Associates at (865) 684-4405. Our lawyers know your rights, and will help you receive the fair compensation you deserve.