With regular hunting season starting over the coming weeks across Western and Central New York, drivers need to buck up this fall and watch for animals on the roads. It's also mating season for deer, and historical data analyzed by AAA shows that October, November, and December are by far the peak months for animal crashes, notably deer, in the Empire State.

“Drivers should always be on the lookout for hazards on the road, but the danger of deer increases every fall,” said Elizabeth Carey, director of public relations at AAA Western and Central New York. “Car-deer collisions can be both deadly and costly. Drivers should pay close attention, avoid distractions and scan the road for deer when traveling on area roadways.”

Motorists should be especially vigilant after dark as deer crashes often occur outside daylight hours. Crashes are common from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. before the clock changes, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. after the clock changes, during the evening rush when darkness sets in.
 

AAA offers the following tips for avoiding or mitigating deer crashes:

• Scan the shoulders of the road in front of you. Deer may dash out from the shoulder or wooded areas adjacent to the road. They often travel in herds.
• Follow the speed limit. Lower speed will give you more time to respond to unexpected wildlife movements.
• If a collision is unavoidable, apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane. Swerving sharply to avoid an animal can often cause a more serious crash.
   

For more insurance tips or to ensure that you are covered in case of a crash, simply go to AAA.com/Insurance.

AAA Insurance