Here are tips for avoiding wildlife collisions on Washington’s roads
A study by State Farm showed that one in 279 drivers in Washington state was likely to have a collision with an animal, making the state a low risk compared to West Virginia, which had the highest risk at 1 in 37 drivers. Here are some tips the insurance company offered to reduce the likelihood of animal-involved crashes:
▪ Stay alert.
▪ Use your car’s high beams and flick them at a deer on the side of the road to make it leave.
▪ Don’t swerve, make sure you maintain control of your vehicle.
▪ Brake as necessary if you can avoid hitting the animal, but be aware of drivers behind you.
▪ Remember that most deer crashes occur between October and December.
▪ Be aware that most animals are in the road between dusk and dawn when they are looking for food.
▪ Watch for herds. If you miss one deer, others are likely near.
▪ Don’t rely on unproven technology, such as deer whistles.
▪ Always wear your seat belt and obey speed limits.
This story was originally published October 12, 2021 at 12:43 PM.
