Drivers beware: More deer on the roads

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - It's that time of year again. Deer can be seen out in the fields and unfortunately in the roadways.

Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Sgt. Andy Cree said deputies have been busy responding to accidents involving deer. He said most accidents happen after dark and Saturday night was no different.

"Each officer took multiple reports so usually after dark they'll start moving and we'll get those reports usually up to midnight or later," Cree said.

Cree said deer are more active this time of year because it's their breeding season. He said that means you'll see more deer while you're driving and sometimes hitting a deer is unavoidable.

There are some tips to keep in mind while driving. When possible use high beam headlights at night, be alert because where there is one deer there are usually more, and always wear your seatbelt.

The most important thing when you're about to hit a deer is to stay calm and don't panic. Cree said the chance of seriously hurting yourself and your passengers increases when you swerve and try to miss the deer because you could end up hitting a tree, telephone poll, or even oncoming traffic.

"If you do hit a deer brake in a straight line safely," Cree said. "Once you can get stopped if you can get off the roadway. That would be the best bet then contact your local police."

Striking a deer with your car can cause a lot of damage and can sometimes be fatal.

"Sometimes if you're lucky you might have minor damage, but unfortunately there are people killed each year that strike deer if they come through the windshield. That does happen once in awhile," Cree said.

Cree said deer should start settling down soon, but until then everyone should be cautious while driving.

"It should be getting better hopefully, but I would expect people still strike deer for the next several weeks," Cree said.