LIMA — Each year in Ohio, deer-vehicle crashes account for an estimated $77 million in damage.
That number does not include medical costs or even the aftermath of dealing with the injuries.
While the number has been on the decline in recent years, Ohio Insurance Institute spokeswoman Mary Bonelli said more can be done to shrink the number. There were 19,705 deer-vehicle crashes in the state last year compared to 20,201 the year before, she said.
Four people were killed last year and eight people the year before. There were 798 people who suffered injuries last year compared to 968 the year before, Bonelli said.
“The primary reason is deer mating season is between October and December,” Bonelli said.
Deer are more active and run across roadways during travel. Deer can weight up to about 300 pounds and often travel in groups, meaning if one crosses the roadway the chances are likely another will, officials said.
Dawn and dusk are the peak times, just when it’s starting to get dark or in the morning when it’s starting to get light. Half the crashes happen between 5 p.m. and 1 a.m., she said.
While the number of crashes are going down, the cost of repairs is increasing to an average of $4,135 in 2014 compared to $3,888 the year before, according to State Farm Insurance
Police, safety personnel, insurance agents and others would like to see the number of crashes with deer continue to decline. Bonelli said it can happen especially if people use safety tips. At a minimum, she said the tips may save a life or lessen the seriousness of injury.
The first safety measure Bonelli and many others recommend is to wear a seat belt.
“No matter what type of crash you’re in your chance of surviving or sustaining less injury are much better,” she said
Drivers should pay more attention in rural areas and especially during dawn and dusk, and in the evenings. If the driver knows or suspects an active deer area, he or she should slow down and be on the lookout, Bonelli said.
When there’s not an oncoming vehicle, motorists should drive with their high-beam lights on to help illuminate the deer.
If a driver is about to be in a crash with a deer the driver should not attempt to swerve or change lanes. Drivers do not have enough time to make sure the space they may be quickly moving to is not occupied by another vehicle or is safe, she said.
“If you swerve quickly you could cause more damage to your vehicle or others. It could be a lot more serious than hitting an animal,” she said.
Instead, Bonelli recommends trying to slow down as much as possible before striking the deer.
Bonelli said there is nothing to show “deer whistles” attached to cars deter crashes.
Motorists who hit a deer should contact local law enforcement. They may contact their insurance agent if there’s damage or if they want file a claim, if it’s covered under their policy, she said.
