Sheriff Spike Says “Watch Out for Deer”

Nearly two thirds of the annual car / deer crashes in New York State occur in the months of October through December says Yates County Sheriff Ron Spike. “Drivers must be especially aware during November,” said Spike, “as in 2008 Yates County Deputy Sheriffs road patrol investigated 70 car-deer crashes that month alone, and for all last year deputies investigated 330 car-deer crashes in the county, and no one highway has a monopoly on crashes, but generally Route 14 leads numbers for a state highway and the Town of Jerusalem has had the most for highways in a town.” Already in just the month of October of 2009 the Sheriff reports that deputies have investigated over 50 car-deer accidents on Yates County highways and 6 on October 29th alone. Deer naturally feed and move in the dawn and dusk times, and drivers need to be especially aware during these times of day. Deer also are “natural herd animals,” and if you see one by, or in the roadway, slow down and be prepared to stop as the likelihood of others about to cross is probable. No matter the season or time of day always use caution when in areas marked with deer crossing signs. Always wear your seatbelt and drive at a safe and prudent speed for the conditions. If you are surprised by a deer reactive and evasive moves may result in loss of vehicle control and generally it may be better to hit the deer than to run into an oncoming car or hit a fixed object like a tree.The Insurance Institute estimates that the average claim for repair of a car that has struck a deer head-on is $2,600. Sheriff Spike said “Please drive with deer in your mind, especially this fall, and buckle up for safety.”