This post is part of a sponsored automotive series. All opinions are mine.
Maybe this is more of a local post, because hitting a deer while you’re driving is really an issue here in Minnesota amongst a variety of other states where Mother Nature runs wild. Here in Minnesota, it’s especially prevalent when you’re driving in the northern section of the state. Anyway, we can do our best to keep our eyes peeled, drive a little slower, and try our best to avoid them but sometimes it just doesn’t work out the way we want. Then what? Here’s what our friends at this Pennsylvania Chrysler Jeep dealer told us.
What to do when you hit a deer with your car
#1) Brake, but then let off at the last minute. Of course, try and brake when encountering a deer in the road. But at the last minute, you have to accept that the collision is going to happen and let off your brake. If you ride your brake all the way through impact, there’s a larger possibility that the deer might go through your windshield based on the front end of your vehicle being angled down vs. not having the brake on.
#2) Pull off to the side of the road, put on your hazards. Find a safe place to pull off to the side of the road and make sure you put on your hazards so that other drivers can see you.
#3) Call the police. Alert them of the accident, and let them know if the deer is blocking the roadway for other motorists. They’ll also want to know if the deer is injured or deceased.
#4) Document the incident. If there is harm to passengers or your vehicle, you may need to file a formal police report. Take photos of the scene and damage to your vehicle so that if necessary, you can file an insurance claim.
It’s easy to get caught up in the adrenaline of the moment, and just continue on your journey. But by following the steps above, you’ll be helping yourself and other motorists (plus the deer!)
Safe driving!
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