(Jim Robinson/ Chicago Tribune photo)
Mild spring weather that brings out the tulips can also be the reason for an increase in animal-vehicle collisions on the road.
Collisions with animals, most notably deer, are responsible for more than 4 percent of all crashes in the United States, according to AAA. And dmv.org, a website that covers driving and related topics, says that 1 out of every 17 car collisions involves wandering wildlife, and approximately 200 motorists die in the U.S. each year from car-wildlife collisions.
Last fall, State Farm said there had been 1.09 million collisions between deer and vehicles in the year ending June 30. West Virginia, for the fifth year in a row, topped the list of states where a driver is most likely to run into a deer (State Farm calculated the odds at 1 in 53).
Now that animals have shaken off winter and are active earlier than normal, the chance of encountering them on the road likewise increases. So drivers would do well to take steps to avoid potentially dangerous situations. Here are some suggestions from State Farm and the Insurance Information Institute on how to lower the risk of an encounter:
-The most prevalent times for deer-vehicle collisions are from sunset to midnight and the hours shortly before and after sunrise. November is the worst month, with one deer-vehicle collision occurring every 5 seconds.
-When driving at night — and when there is no oncoming traffic — use your high beams. That will better illuminate the eyes of animals in your path.
-If you come upon an animal, brake firmly and stay in your lane. Swerving can cause a collision with another vehicle or may cause you to lose control.
-Devices such as deer whistles, deer fences and reflectors can't be counted on to deter deer.
Be aware of deer crossing signs; they're posted in known deer crossing areas.
Other recommendations include obeying speed limits and staying alert. If you see a deer in the road, honk your horn. Flashing your lights might cause the animal to fixate on your vehicle.
Should you be involved in a wildlife collision, stay away from the animal and contact the police if there is a hazard in the road. Once safely off the road, contact your insurance company to report damage and file a claim.