6 Tips for Avoiding Deer on Michigan Highways

by | Oct 16, 2017 | Car Accidents | 0 comments

The presence of deer on Michigan roads is a natural byproduct of fall being in full swing. While these animals offer a delightful visual, they can also be a dangerous hazard. Recent statistics place Michigan in the top ten states of most deer-related car accidents. Over 1.5 million deer accidents occur annually nationwide, and the numbers don’t seem to be decreasing. Take heed to these driving tips to avoid being involved in a deer-related accident.

Awareness

Since deer are famous for darting into traffic at a moment’s notice, it’s important to remain aware of their potential presence. The usual times that they appear will be at daybreak or as night falls. Being knowledgeable of when they are likely to present themselves can help you drive with an increased awareness for possible deer crossings.

Warning Signs

All Michigan drivers should take note of deer warning signs, as they are only in places where deer are most likely to cross. Even if you do not see a deer in the area of a warning sign, you can prevent an accident by slowing down. By the time you see the deer, it is often too late.

Lights

Using high beam lights when driving at night can help you detect a deer from further away. If you notice deer on the road, flash your lights to get them to move. They are often mesmerized by steady lighting so shining your high beams alone will just get them to stare into the lights.

Swerving

One of the worst things you can do is swerve away from any deer that may be in your path. This is because, while avoiding the deer is your instinct, you could end up in a worse situation by hitting another car, truck, or tree. In this situation, it is better to get a firm grip on the steering wheel, apply the brakes, and brace for impact.

Michigan Legal Center has been around for over two decades and is aware of all the dangers deer can present to drivers. Contact the car accident attorneys at Michigan Legal Center to discuss your legal options following a deer accident.

Cadillac, MI – Child Injured in Bicycle Crash at Granite & Laurel St

Cadillac, MI (June 3, 2023) - A 12-year-old boy was hurt while riding a bike in Cadillac on Friday night, June 2.  The fatal accident was reported at the corner of Granite and Laurel Street at around 6:40 p.m. The victim was traveling by bicycle when he was hit by a...

Algonac, MI – Debra Fox Killed in Boating Accident at Algonac Harbor Club

Algonac, MI (June 3, 2023) - A Clarkston woman was killed in a boating accident in Algonac over the weekend on Friday, May 26.  The deadly accident took place at the Algonac Harbor Club on M-29 near State Street. When emergency responders arrived, they found a 23-foot...

Imlay City, MI – Woman Killed, Man Hurt in Can-Am Spyder Motorcycle Crash on M-53

Imlay City, MI (June 3, 2023) - A woman was killed and a man injured following a crash involving two motorcycles in Imlay City on Sunday afternoon, May 28.  The fatal accident was reported on M-53 as the woman was riding a Can-Am Spyder three-wheeled motorcycle and...

Flint Twp, MI – Two Killed, One Hurt in Wrong-Way Crash at I-75 & Beecher Rd

Flint Twp, MI (June 3, 2023) - A head-on crash in Flint Township on Saturday, May 27, left two people dead and another in critical condition.  At around 10:35 p.m., two vehicles collided on Interstate 75 near Beecher Road. It was reported that a 43-year-old man from...

Holly Twp, MI – Burton Man Killed in Motorcycle Crash at Belford & Holly Rd

Holly Twp, MI (June 3, 2023) - On Monday, May 29, a motorcyclist was killed following a collision in Holly Township.  The deadly accident was reported at the intersection of Belford and Holly Roads early that morning. A 53-year-old Burton man was headed northbound on...

Gladwin, MI – Woman Hurt in Three-Vehicle Crash on M-61

Gladwin, MI (June 3, 2023) - A woman was injured after a pileup collision in the Gladwin area on Tuesday, May 23.  The accident was reported on M-61 that afternoon. Three vehicles reportedly collided at the scene. A woman was hurt in the crash, and she was treated at...

Kingsford, MI – Two Hurt after Car Crashes into Healthcare Building on Pyle Dr

Kingsford, MI (June 3, 2023) - Two people were injured after a vehicle crashed into a building on Pyle Drive in Kingsford on Thursday afternoon, June 1.  The accident occurred as a 2003 Ford Crown Victoria was traveling on the roadway and crashed into the Northpointe...

Walker, MI – Driver Seriously Hurt in Two-Car Crash at Elmridge Dr & 3 Mile Rd

Walker, MI (June 3, 2023) - Two people were injured after a two-vehicle collision in Walker on Wednesday, May 31.  The accient was reported at the intersection of Elmrige Drive and 3 Mile Road at around 8 a.m. A driver was making a left turn when they were hit by an...

Frenchtown Twp, MI – Monroe Man Dies in 18-Wheeler Crash at Telegraph & Newport Rd

Frenchtown Twp, MI (June 2, 2023) - On Monday, May 29, a Monroe man was killed after being hit by a semi-truck in Frenchtown Township.  The victim was riding a 1989 Honda Hurricane motorcycle when he was hit by a black 2020 Peterbilt tractor-trailer at the...

Gaines Twp, MI – Britt Bridge Killed in Motorcycle Accident at Morrish & Hill Rd

Gaines Twp, MI (June 2, 2023) - A crash involving a pickup truck and a motorcycle in Gaines Township resulted in the death of a Swartz Creek man on Saturday, May 27.  The deadly crash occurred at the corner of Morrish and Hill Roads at around 11 p.m. that night. It...