Deer Related Car Accidents
This time of year, deer-related accidents tend to rise. This coincides with their mating season, which peaks in November and extends to late December. Deer become more active this time of year, and are more likely to dash out onto the road in front of unsuspecting drivers, causing accidents. There are approximately 1.5 million car accidents involving deer each year, resulting in an average of 150 fatalities. State Farm Insurance reports that New Jersey ranked number 34, with a one in 250 chance of a deer-related crash.
Preventing Deer-Related Accidents
Drivers should be cautious in areas where deer have been seen, especially if there are deer-crossing signs in the area. When driving during the early morning hours or at sunset, motorists should slow down and stay alert for deer that may dart out onto the road, causing drivers to veer into oncoming traffic, or suddenly brake, causing a rear-end collision. Deer tend to travel frequently during these times of day. It is helpful to use high beams while driving when dealing with limited visibility, but be sure to dim the lights when cars are coming in the opposite direction. Be sure to wear your seatbelt and slow down if you see a deer on the side of the road. If one deer crosses the road in front of you, be aware that more are sure to follow, as deer travel in single-file lines.
What to Do When You Are in a Car Accident
Your insurance recovery will depend on many factors, including whether you have hit the deer, collided with another driver, or swerved and hit another object, like a telephone pole. Hitting an inanimate object will cause more damage and catastrophic injuries to you and the other motorist. If you are involved in a collision with another driver due to avoiding deer on the road, it is best to make sure to call local law enforcement immediately and document the scene of the accident.
Piscataway Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Advocate for Those Injured in Collisions
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident that you believe was due to another’s negligence, our experienced Piscataway car accident lawyers are prepared to help you. At the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr, our legal team can assist you with obtaining compensation for your injuries. Contact us online or call 877-249-4600 today for an initial consultation. At our Highland Park, New Jersey offices, we serve clients in Middlesex County, including the communities of Somerset, New Brunswick, Edison, South River, Sayreville, Metuchen, East Brunswick, South Plainfield, Fords, Middlesex, Old Bridge, Iselin, Bound Brook, Perth Amboy, and Colonia.
