Cold weather for many people means warming up the car and shoveling snow. But it is also deer season and the chances of you hitting a deer while driving goes way up during the cold months of the year. But there are some actions you can take to help reduce the risk of hitting a deer. Some of them you may already know, but you also might learn a bit. 

- Use extra caution from dusk to dawn; 

Usually deer are the most active from dusk until dawn and this is especially true during mating season which is from October through December. Be aware and keep your eye on the road. ALWAYS wear your seat belt, and make sure everyone else in the car is wearing a seat belt as well. This could save your life. Usually hitting a deer isn't life threatening for the driver of the vehicle, but if you don't have your seat belt on then you could potentially be thrown into the window. 

- Watch for deer crossing road signs;

Be attentive to the area around you while you are driving. Watch for road signs highlighting areas that usually have higher dear activity. Forested areas and fields are generally where they are most abundant, but they can still be found in suburbs and neighbor hoods. The lack of a sign doesn't mean the lack of deer. 

- Slow down if you spot a deer;    

Deer usually travel together in a herd. Which means if you see one deer there are most likely more. If one runs across the road slow down immediately. There will usually be more to follow.  

- Be more careful at night;

When you are driving at night try to drive slower than you would during the middle of the day. If you are driving slower you'll have more time to respond if you do see a deer on eh side of the road. Also use your high beams as much as you can, you’ll be able to see deer from farther away. 

- Don't swerve;     

If a deer does jump out in front of you never swerve to miss it. If you do, you not only risk hitting the deer, but you could swerve into oncoming traffic. This would be much worse then just hitting the deer. There is also the possibility of running of the road and hitting some object. 

- Purchase Comprehensive coverage;

Did you know that if you do not have comprehensive coverage your vehicle is only covered if you crash with another vehicle? If you purchase comprehensive auto insurance, then other types of accidents will usually be covered. If you are unsure of what type of insurance you have, talk to your insurance agent and they will help you determine what policy you have and what it will cover. 

- Report the Accident;

If you are unable to avoid a deer and do hit one, report the accident to the police. Contact your insurance agent if the damage is severe and they can help you file the claim. 

We hope you stay safe and avoid accidents this fall and winter season.