Your Odds Of Hitting A Deer In Minnesota This Fall Have Increased By Nearly 9%
State Farm Insurance says Minnesota drivers are more likely to hit a deer this year than they were last year.The odds a person will hit a deer in Minnesota are one in 81 - nearly 9 percent more likely than last year. The national average is one in 169.
Minnesota is now ranked seventh in the country for the most deer collisions, up from eighth in 2014. West Virginia is number 1 – odds of hitting a deer there are one in 44.
The insurance company offers these tips on their website:
- Stay alert. Pay attention to "deer crossing" signs. Scan down the road and off to each side. Be especially watchful in areas near woods and water. If you see one deer, there are probably several others nearby.
- Be especially vigilant during peak season. Though collisions can happen any time of year, fall is peak time for deer-car crashes because it's both hunting and mating seasons, forcing deer to roam outside their normal territory.
- Use headlights smartly. At night, use high-beams when possible to illuminate the road's edges. If you see a deer far ahead, flick the brights on and off multiple times. Deer tend to fixate on headlights, so flashing them may cause the animal to scurry away.
- Watch out at mealtime. Pay particular attention between dusk and dawn, when these animals usually venture out to eat.
- Brake as necessary. If you think you have time to avoid hitting the animal, reduce speed, tap the brakes to warn drivers behind you, and sound your horn. If there's no vehicle close behind you, brake hard.
- Don't swerve. If a collision seems inevitable, don't veer off to avoid the animal. Your risk of injury may be greater if you do. Maintain control of the vehicle. Report the accident to the police and your insurance company.
- Always obey speed limits and wear seat belts.
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