Many of us cite Autumn as our favourite season thanks to the fun events, colourful scenes and epic sunsets it offers, but it’s vital that we take extra care on the roads as the year starts to come to an end. One of the reasons that the roads are so dangerous at this time of year is that drivers are met with extra glare, which can be particularly hazardous. Add to this the wet conditions, the leaves that cover the roads and the fact that it is also mating season for deer, it’s clear to see why we need to pay so much attention whilst driving in the autumn.

Many people are involved in accidents involving deer during the autumn. One of the most effective ways to avoid colliding with deer whilst driving is to turn off your full beams if you spot one. Deer often freeze when they are met with bright light. You can also protect the well-being of deer by reducing your speed, but you will need to avoid swerving as you could collide with another vehicle or object such as a tree. Stay as calm and vigilant as you can if you do notice deer whilst out on the road and avoid making sudden moves that may confuse, shock or startle them.

The Deer Initiative
This year, Highways England and The Deer Initiative are again working together to raise awareness of deer on the roads, helping prevent accidents and protect the lives of deer. It has been estimated that 74,000 deer-related road accidents may occur this year, and that 20 deaths could occur. These estimates also suggest that there could be up to 700 human injuries. The autumn mating season for deer takes place between October and December, which means there is a bigger chance of deer wandering across the roads of Britain during this period. Road accidents involving deer are most likely to occur between sunset and midnight, and around sunrise. It’s particularly important to look out for deer when driving on rural roads, where deer are most likely to be spotted.

There are 2 million deer living wild across the country. If you do spot one deer whilst out on the road, remain vigilant as chances are more will be in the area. It’s always best to stop rather than swerve to avoid hitting a deer, but make sure you use your hazard warning lights if you do have to pause your journey. If a collision does occur, inform the police. You can also find out more information about avoiding harming deer whilst driving on the Deer Aware website.

How we can help
At OneCall Accident Management, we specialise in helping people after road accidents. We can be your one-stop shop for advice and assistance following a road traffic accident and are here to remove as much confusion and inconvenience as we can. To reach us today and speak to a trained adviser, call us on 0800 999 4042, send an e-mail to contact@onecallam.co.uk or use the contact form on our site.