Deer-related crashes peak during the months of October through December

October through December serve as the peak season for deer-related car crashes. Every year, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, these types of accidents account for over 150 human fatalities.  The number of deer killed in these accidents average a mind-boggling one and a half million!  More astonishing is the fact that these numbers don't account for the hundreds of thousands of personal injuries sustained by people involved in deer-related incidents.

In terms of the probability of hitting a deer, Indiana accounts for one of the highest percentages, ranking 11th in the country. State Farm Insurance reported the number of deer-related crashes in Indiana was up 24.2% compared to five years ago.  Experts have determined that a combination of deer mating and migration habits, as well as shortened daylight hours, have heightened everyone's risk of being involved in this type of crash.

Am I able to make a recovery if I was an injured passenger in a car that struck a deer?  It's possible.

The only way to determine whether or not you would be able to make a recovery for your injuries is by contacting an experienced personal injury attorney.  Deer-related accidents can be very complicated.  They are far from the day-to-day crashes often seen on our highways.

• Respect deer crossing signs--they are there for a reason! These signs are often placed in high incident areas.
• Special caution should be given between the hours of 6 and 9 p.m., as this is when deer are most active.
• Use your high beam lights as much as possible at night to help illuminate areas where deer may cross or enter roadways.
• Remember that deer often travel in herds.  When you see one, there is a strong likelihood more are in the immediate area!
• Don't put faith in car-mounted deer whistles. They don't work.
• Remember, if a collision seems unavoidable, attempting to swerve out of the way may cause you to lose control of your vehicle or place you in the path of oncoming traffic.
• Always be aware, slow down, and use your peripheral vision.  You'll reduce your chances of being involved in a deer-related collision.