AGFC urges motorists to be on the lookout for deer

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Rut is in full swing in most parts of the state, and with the increased deer activity comes something that happens to hundreds of Arkansas drivers every year – a collision with a deer. Over the last few weeks several reports have come through the Baxter County Sheriff’s office citing deer collisions, a noticeable increase compared to the rest of 2017.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission advises all motorists to be aware of what may be just beyond the edge of the road while driving during this time of year. In addition to the increased deer activity, the shortened days place rush hour during the peak times of day when deer are on the move.

One way to increase safety is simply slowing down. Giving yourself a split-second longer to see and react to deer along the side of the road often can be the difference between a safe braking job and a dangerous situation. Give yourself a few extra minutes in the morning and at night to get where you’re going and arrive safely.When it is dark, using high beams, whenever the road is free of oncoming traffic will, allow a deer’s eyes to shine, even when along the side of the road, making it easier to see if it is approaching.

AGFC says while jokes abound about deer crossing signs and the Arkansas Department of Transportation simply moving them to a crosswalk to let deer cross in those areas, the signs are there for a reason. According to ARDOT, these signs are placed at areas where they have been requested by people observing multiple instances of animals crossing the road and where vehicle collisions have occurred.

AGFC advises to not swerve to avoid a deer in the road. Swerving can confuse the deer on where to run. Swerving can also cause a head-on collision with oncoming vehicles, take your vehicle off the roadway into a tree or a ditch, and greatly increase the chances of serious injuries. If a deer does move into your path, maintain control and do your best to brake and give the deer time to get out of your way.

If there is a collision with a deer or other large animal, call emergency services at once if injuries are involved, or local law enforcement if no one is injured but vehicle damage occurs. Also give the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission a call at 800-482-9262 to report the road kill and report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible.

A frequent question to the Game and Fish Commission asks if the law allows to keep a deer for the meat if it is killed on the road. The answer is yes, and it does not count on a hunter’s season limit. Once a wildlife officer records the incident, he or she also may know of a needy family in the area who would take the meat.

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