Motorists reminded 'tis the season to be aware of roaming deer

Fall means cooler weather, leaves changing color and the soon arrival of the holiday season.

It's also deer season, with the animals being more active due to their mating and migration habits, shortened daylight hours and the presence of rifle-toting hunters looking to add to their trophy collection or a freezer full of venison.

As a result of the problems deer can cause when on or along roadways, insurance agents are urging motorists to beware of their surroundings to avoid potentially deadly collisions with the animals.

"Once the first frost arrives, male deer activity increases and we see more auto and deer collisions," said Allstate agent Troy Gaffney in a recent press release. "Drivers need to be extra cautious when driving to make sure that they do not hit deer running across the road.

"Not only can the deer be harmed, but it is also a dangerous situation for the passengers in the vehicle, not to mention the potential damage to an automobile."

According to the Insurance Information Institute, more than 1.5 million deervehicle collisions occur each year, resulting in an average of 150 occupant deaths. These crashes also account for more than $1 billion in vehicle damage.

Most collisions occur at dawn or dusk, times of the day when deer are most active.

The average claim for collision damage is approximately $3,000, with costs varying depending on the type of vehicle and severity of damage. Medical bills can also add thousands of dollars to an already high tab.

Approximately 1,560 deervehicle collisions were reported to law enforcement officials across South Carolina last year, according to a report by the state Department of Natural Resources. Of that total, only two cases occurred in Cherokee County.

"That's definitely good news," said local resident Taylor Givens. "But they're still out there so we all have to keep on the lookout for them."

At least 157 deer-vehicle collisions occurred in Charleston County, tops in the state. Following Charleston is Beaufort, Richland, Spartanburg and Dorchester counties.

Deer are not just found on rural roads near wooded areas, many deer crashes occur on busy highways near cities.

Deer are unpredictable, especially when faced with glaring headlights, blowing horns and fast-moving vehicles. They often dart into traffic.

Deer often move in groups. If you see one, there are likely more in the vicinity.

Drive with caution when moving through deer-crossing zones, in areas known to have a large deer population and in areas where roads divide agricultural fields from forestland.

Always wear your seat belt and stay awake, alert and sober.

When driving at night, use high beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic. The high beams will better illuminate the eyes of deer on or near the roadway.

Be especially attentive from sunset to midnight and during the hours shortly before and after sunrise. These are the highest risk times for deer-vehicle collisions.

Brake firmly when you notice a deer in or near your path, but stay in your lane. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or lose control of their cars.

Do not rely on devices such as deer whistles, deer fences and reflectors to deter deer. These devices have not proven effective in reducing deer-vehicle collisions.