AAA urging drivers to exercise caution during deer mating season

BALTIMORE -- AAA is encouraging drivers to exercise caution during deer mating season, which runs from October through December. 

AAA said vehicle repairs from deer strikes have risen more than 60% in the past five years. 

"Deer can be unpredictable, so even the best drivers are at risk," Welaine Memenza Territory Insurance Sale Manager said. 

Deer are especially active during prime commuting hours, between 5-8 a.m. and 5-8 p.m., according to AAA.

AAA Tips to Avoid an Animal Collision

• Keep your eyes moving back and forth: Continuously sweep your eyes across the road for signs of animals. While the most likely crash is caused by an animal darting in front of you, one might also run into the side of your car.

• At night, use high beams when there's no oncoming traffic: Your brights can help you spot animals sooner. The light reflecting off their eyes may also reveal their location.
• Slow down and watch for other deer to appear: Deer rarely travel alone, so if you see one, there are likely to be one or more nearby.
• Honk your horn with one long blast: A long blast on your horn may frighten large animals, such as deer, away from your vehicle. 
• Use brakes if impact is imminent: If an animal is in your path, stay in your lane. Swerving away from animals can confuse them so they don't know which way to run. It can also put you in the path of oncoming vehicles or cause you to crash into objects on the side of the road.
• Always wear a seatbelt: According to the Insurance Information Institute, the chances of getting injured when hitting an animal are much higher if you don't have your seatbelt on.  

If you collide with an animal

• If possible, immediately move the vehicle to a safe location out of the roadway. Your safety and the safety of your passengers are most important.
• Once you are in a safe location and no longer driving, call the police.
• Put the vehicle's hazard lights on, whether it is light or dark outside.
• Avoid making contact with the deer/animal. A frightened or wounded animal can hurt you or further injure itself.
• Contact your insurance company as quickly as possible to report any damage to your car.
• Take photos of the damage if you can do so safely and without entering the roadway.