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Don't Veer For Deer! 146 Vehicle-Deer Crashes Occur Every Day In Michigan

SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) - It's that time of year when deer are on the run.

October and November are the most dangerous months for deer related crashes in Michigan. On average, officials say 146 vehicle-deer crashes occur every day during this time period.

In just the first week of October alone, Michigan State Police handled at least 11 car-deer crashes throughout Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.

Last year, 45,690 deer-vehicle crashes were reported in Michigan. That's down slightly from the 49,205 crashes reported in 2013.

Here's the top 10 breakdown by county, according to the Michigan Deer Crash Coalition:

  1. Oakland County -- 1,750
  2. Kent County -- 1,338
  3. Jackson County -- 1,279
  4. Lapeer County -- 1,153
  5. Eaton County -- 1,077
  6. Sanilac County -- 1,053
  7. Clinton County -- 1,015
  8. Montcalm County -- 968
  9. Genesee County -- 964
  10. Washtenaw County -- 952

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As this dangerous deer season continues, motorists are being reminded to be extra cautious and "Don't Veer for Deer." Watch for deer, especially at dawn and dusk. If you see one, approach cautiously because it usually means more are out of sight. And when you see a deer crossing sign, slow down.

Here's how to react if you and a deer are on a collision course:

- Don't swerve. Instead, brake firmly and hold tight to the steering wheel.
- Stay in your lane and bring your vehicle to a controlled stop.
- If you hit a deer, pull off the road and turn on your emergency flashers.
- Don't try to move the deer unless you're convinced it's dead.
- Report the crash to the nearest police agency and your insurance company.

 

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