by Kevin Zimmermann
(WHBL) – The Wisconsin DOT is warning drivers that now through November is the peak time for deer/vehicle crashes. That’s because the deer have something on their minds…finding mates. And since they’re not paying attention to you, drivers need to buckle up, slow down and watch the road ahead carefully, especially at dawn and dusk.
Last year in Wisconsin, there were 18,414 reported deer/vehicle crashes that resulted in injuries to 556 motorists and nine fatalities (six were motorcyclists). Sheboygan County had 692 such collisions in 2018 – the most recent year available from the DOT, and as many as 736 the year before, right up there with some of the highest rates in the state.
The Wisconsin DOT recommends that if you see one deer cross in front of you, watch for more. And if you can’t avoid hitting the deer, brake firmly and stay in your lane since swerving can result in losing control and a more serious crash. Then park safely off the road if possible and call law enforcement. And since dead or injured deer in the roadway present an urgent safety hazard, call 911 if you see one.
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