Oh, Deer!

Sheriff  Mendham reminds drivers to be alert during deer season
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White Cloud-Sheriff Mendham reminds motorists that with fall and the hunting season in full swing, deer populations will be on the move.  This activity heightens the chance of a car/deer crash occurring.  
In 2016, there were a reported 46,870 accidents in Michigan involving vehicles & deer.  “Most often, you’ll see a deer near dawn or dusk,” said Sheriff Mendham.  Motorists are encouraged to look beyond the beam of their headlights for eyes of deer that may be near the path of your vehicle.  
Trying to dodge a deer is not a good idea according to Sheriff Mendham.  Deer often move erratically and swerving may cause you to lose control of your vehicle, resulting in injury or even death.  In 2016, 1,240 injuries and 14 deaths were reported as a result of a vehicle-deer collision.  The best way to avoid a vehicle-deer collision is to slow your vehicle down, flash your headlights and/or blow your horn to try and scare the animal.  Deer travel together, if you see one chances are others are coming so please proceed with caution.
Remember to heed deer crossing signs.  If you do hit a deer make sure you report it to your local police or the sheriff’s office.
For more safety tips Sheriff Mendham encourages residents to visit the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association website at www.misheriff.org where you can sign up to receive monthly newsletters.  Founded in 1877 the Michigan Sheriffs’ Association is the oldest law enforcement organization in Michigan.