Do you see the deer looking at you?

For those of us who live in the Midwest, fall is a great time of year. Football has returned, the temperatures are comfortable, and watching the leaves change colors is enjoyable.

Unfortunately, this is also the peak time of year for deer and auto collisions. Mating season for deer runs from October through December so the population is more active during this time, accounting for that increase in collisions.

Here are some tips to prevent a collision between your car and a deer this fall.

1. Pay attention to your surroundings. Look for the yellow traffic sign with a deer on it. If you see one, it means you’re entering an area with an active, concentrated deer population. Make sure your eyes are always moving, and pay particular attention to the side of the road.

And don’t forget to pay attention to what other cars are doing. The car in front of you may brake suddenly. If you notice something out of the ordinary, slow down.

2. One deer probably equals many more. Deer usually travel in herds, so if you see one cross the road, look immediately to where the deer came from. There are probably others ready to cross. Deer are most active between 6:00 and 9:00pm.

3. High beams, high beams, high beams. Use your high beams as much as oncoming traffic will allow at this time of year. High beams do a great job lighting up the road in front of you, especially the side of the road where the herd may be hanging out.

If you feel your headlights aren’t lighting up the road properly, consider taking your car to your local mechanic for a check up. A headlight may be burned out or need an adjustment.

For more safety tips, see the full article

information and photo courtesy of West Bend