Fall is typically the time when big game animals are on the move, all the more reason for motorists to pay special heed to “Deer Crossing” signs.

“Deer-automobile accidents reach their peak in October through December,” said Art Smith, wildlife damage management program administrator for the S.D. Game, Fish and Parks Department. “Deer are restless in the fall through their rut and as they prepare for winter. Drivers should never overdrive the road conditions, and one of the conditions we can expect is deer on the move.”

Often when a motorist sees a deer or other big game animal on the road, there isn’t much time to react. The most severe accidents don’t occur when the vehicle hits the deer but when the motorist swerves to avoid the animal and hits a tree or another vehicle or suffers a rollover.

“A driver who tries to save an animal by swerving may not be choosing the safest option,” Smith said. “When a collision is inevitable, don’t swerve. Hold on to the steering wheel and hit the brakes firmly. Stay in your lane and bring the vehicle to a controlled stop.”

Drivers should be vigilant during this peak season for deer/vehicle collisions and follow these suggestions from The Insurance Information Institute:

• Be particularly attentive between sunset and midnight and during the hours shortly before and shortly after sunrise. Most deer-vehicle collisions occur at those times.
• Drive carefully in areas known to have high deer populations.
• If you see a deer, slow down. Others are probably nearby.
• Use high-beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic. The high beams will reflect in a deer’s eyes and warn you of its presence.
• If a deer is in your lane, brake firmly but stay in your lane. The most serious accidents occur when drivers swerve.
• Don’t rely on deer whistles, deer fences or reflectors to deter deer.
• Always wear seat belts.

When a vehicle strikes a big game animal, the driver needs to make immediate contact with law enforcement.