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Deer becoming more active

Although there is often signage to warn motorists of higher deer-travelled areas, motorists need to be aware in all areas
Deer crossing
File photo

The East Algoma Detachment of the OPP has investigated 30 collisions involving deer since the beginning of 2019. There have already been nine occurrences involving deer thus far in the month of April.

The OPP is urging all motorists to be alert and aware of their surroundings.

Although there is often signage to warn motorists of higher deer-travelled areas, motorists need to be aware in all areas. Deer don't limit their activity to rural roads and are known to cross the busy roadways.

Some helpful hints to ensure a safe journey during this time of year are as follows:

  • Look all around, not just straight ahead. Deer will often run across the road from ditches and protected areas such as stream corridors and woodlots.
  • Where you see one deer, expect more. Deer often travel in herds.
  • Slow down. The slower you go, the more time you have to react should you encounter a deer.
  • Deer can move across roads at any time of the day
  • Watch for glowing eyes of deer at night.
  • Don't veer for deer. Should a deer run into the path of your vehicle, reduce your speed quickly, steer straight and stay in control.
  • Remove all distractions. Give yourself the best chance possible to see and predict where deer might go.
  • Buckle up. If you need to stop in a hurry, you want your body restrained to prevent unnecessary injury or possibly death.

"We want the motoring public to get where they're going safely, we're seeing a high presence of deer on our roadways including the Trans-Canada Highway. Please slow down and watch for deer." says Inspector Tyler Sturgeon, East Algoma OPP Detachment Commander.

Need a good laugh?

Watch the "Deer Crossing" video below.