Most people watch for deer in the fall during mating season, but the spring is a big time for deer as well.

Excerpted from the National Motorist Association Newsletter #254.

1. Most deer collisions occur between sundown and midnight, and just before and after dawn, so pay extra attention during these periods.
2. Use your high beams as much as possible and scan the roadside for any sudden movements.
3. On a multi-lane road, if you won’t impede traffic, consider moving to the left lane (this is one of the few times you’ll hear us recommend this). This creates a “buffer zone” on each side giving you more time to react should a deer pop out.
4. Don’t rely on deer whistles. They don’t work.
5. Deer travel in herds. When one crosses the road, others are likely right behind.
6. If a collision is inevitable, stomp on the brakes but try to stay in your lane. Swerving increases the risk of colliding with an oncoming vehicle or a roadside obstruction.
7. Pay attention to deer crossing signs. That’s where the deer cross. And no, you can’t relocate a deer crossing simply by moving the sign, as some suggest.
8. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in a deer collision. Be safe.