AAA Reminds Drivers 'Don't Veer': 1 In 5 Crashes In Michigan Involve Deer
SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) - One in every five vehicle crashes in Michigan involve deer and with hunters in the woods, November is one of the most dangerous months.
Last year, 12 motorists were killed and another 1,200 were hurt in car-deer accidents in Michigan, according to AAA. This year, the deer population is estimated at around 1.8 million, so drivers are being urged to stay alert -- especially at dawn and dusk.
In 2013, there were 49,205 car-deer crashes, up from 48,918 the year before. Here's the top 10 breakdown by county:
- Oakland County -- 1,801 crashes
- Jackson County -- 1,480 crashes
- Kent -- 1,447 crashes
- Lapeer -- 1,229 crashes
- Eaton -- 1,076 crashes
- Montcalm -- 1,073 crashes
- Sanilac -- 1,071 crashes
- Calhoun -- 1,059 crashes
- Washtenaw -- 1,058 crashes
- Clinton -- 1,056 crashes
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With November 15th being the official start of the of deer hunting firearms season, AAA and the Michigan Deer Crash Coalition have teamed up to remind motorists to be extra cautious and "Don't Veer for Deer."
The Coalition offers the following safety tips:
- Stay awake, alert and sober.
- Always wear a safety belt.
- Be especially alert at dawn and dusk.
- If you see one deer, slow down. Chances are there are others nearby.
- If a crash is unavoidable, don't swerve, brake firmly, hold onto the steering wheel, stay in your lane and bring your car to a controlled stop.
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For more information, visit www.michigandeercrash.com.