Autumn’s arrival reminds us that the days are getting shorter and deer are becoming more active and visible on Mississippi roadways, leading to potentially life-threatening dangers for motorists.
A Mississippi Department of Transportation press release this week drives the point home.
In 2018, there were 3,855 reported deer-related crashes in the state, MDOT noted, while offering the following safety advice to motorists:
• Always buckle up and drive at a safe speed.
• Remain vigilant when driving at dawn and dusk. About 20 percent of crashes occur in early morning. More than half occur between 5 p.m. and midnight.
• At night, use high beams, when no traffic is approaching, to illuminate the eyes of deer near the road. Deer are herd animals, so there may be more than the one or two you can see.
• Don’t veer for deer. Swerving can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. If a deer runs in front of a moving car, remain calm and brake firmly.
Finally, avoid distracted driving. Watch the road.
