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.

Portage, MI – Woman Killed in Pedestrian Crash on Willowcreek Rd

Portage, MI (December 3, 2023) - A 68-year-old woman has died after being struck by a vehicle in Portage, according to the Portage Police Department. At about 6:45 p.m. on Tuesday, officers of the Portage Police Department responded to the area of Willowcreek Road...

Lansing, MI – Injury Vehicle Collision Shuts Down US 127 at Lake Lansing

Lansing, MI (December 3, 2023) - An incident on southbound U.S. Highway 127 was reported on Friday morning, December 1, and caused the entire roadway to be closed, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). At 8:15 a.m. on the southbound side of...

Detroit, MI – Multi-Vehicle Wreck w/Injuries on I-96 at Grand Blvd

Detroit, MI (December 3, 2023) - Detroit police say they are investigating the details surrounding a multi-vehicle crash that occurred on Sunday, December 3, according to the officers who responded to the scene. Though specific details about the crash have not been...

Detroit, MI – Rollover Collision Causes Injury at 10 Mile & Gratiot

Detroit, MI (December 3, 2023) - On Sunday, December 3, two vehicles collided on a local highway in Detroit, leading to victim injuries and a rollover of one of the cars involved, as reported by Michigan State Police troopers and local officers. According to a report...

Detroit, MI – I-75 Car Crash Injures Victims After M-8

Detroit, MI (December 3, 2023) - According to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), southbound I-75 after Michigan Highway 8 was blocked as a result of an accident on Sunday, December 3. At around 2:50 p.m. on Sunday, the Michigan Department of...

Detroit, MI – Car Accident, Injuries on M-10 Near I-94 Ramp

Detroit, MI (December 3, 2023) - Multiple drivers collided in a major vehicle crash in the Detroit region on Sunday, December 3, and the incident reportedly ended in injuries, per local authorities. At around 1:15 p.m., the suspected rear-end collision occurred on...

Detroit, MI – Injury-Causing Accident Closes I-94 at Little Mack

Detroit, MI (December 3, 2023) - An accident involving at least two vehicles blocked several lanes of a local freeway on Sunday afternoon, December 3, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation, resulting in a handful of victim injuries. At about 3:15...

Detroit, MI – Injuries Recorded in Vehicle Crash on I-94 at Mt Elliott

Detroit, MI (December 3, 2023) - After an accident on Sunday, December 3, a local Detroit roadway was partially closed. All right lanes of westbound I-94 after Mt. Elliott were closed due to the accident at roughly 10:45 a.m., according to troopers with the Michigan...

Roseville, MI – Officer Hurt in Accident on I-94 at 13 Mile Rd

Roseville, MI (December 3, 2023) - On Sunday afternoon at approximately 3:00 p.m., one driver was cited and an officer was hurt following a vehicle wreck, per local authorities who responded to the scene. The Roseville Police Department responded to westbound I-94 at...

Mundy Twp, MI – US 23 Site of Semi-Truck Wreck, Injuries at Maple Rd

Mundy Township, MI (December 3, 2023) - Traffic was backed up for miles on northbound U.S. 23 after a trailer slammed into the Maple Road bridge following a wreck in Mundy Township on Friday morning. The crash was reported around 10:30 a.m., and it led emergency crews...