Police say deer-related car accidents will increase this time of year

The Indiana State Police is warning citizens about the danger of accidents between cars and deer during this time of the year, citing 16,225 deer-related accidents in 2009 in Indiana.

There were 7,129 accidents between January and August 2010, according to a press release issued by the ISP.

“They happen more this time of year with the harvest coming in,” said Sgt. Curt Durnil, public information officer for the ISP Bloomington District. “The deer population is now getting a little more brave than in recent years.”

Though Durnil does not have an estimate as to whether the total number will increase this year or not, he did say the police expect the frequency of these accidents to increase this fall.

As a result, students and residents are urged to drive more carefully.

The ISP gave some advice to help drivers avoid dangerous situations.

The press release recommended using high beam headlights whenever possible and looking for the reflections from the deer’s eyes. It also mentioned that deer frequently travel in groups.

“Do not assume you missed the deer because more could follow,” Durnil said in the release.

Above all, ISP advise normal cautionary measures while driving, such as wearing a seat belt and staying alert.

In the event that an accident does occur, Durnil said drivers should move their vehicles out  of traffic.

“Folks don’t want to move their cars because they feel like the police can’t do their job,” he said. “We suggest you move it into the nearest driveway or parking lot. Get it off the roadway.”

Accidents with deer should always be reported to the police and drivers should obtain a crash report to give to their insurance companies.

— Michael Auslen