FROM INDIANA PUBLIC BROADCASTING

Indiana drivers are more likely to hit deer from now through December, but careful driving can help prevent collisions.

AAA Hoosier Motor Club spokesperson Christina Griffiths advises drivers not to swerve to avoid deer. “The most important thing is don’t swerve and don’t panic, because if you end up swerving, you could hit another car, you could hit a tree, you could hit a guardrail, and then you could end up hurting yourself or somebody else and having a lot more damage to your car,” she said.

Griffiths also noted that insurance companies won’t cover damages if a driver swerves. She recommends using high beams at dawn and dusk, as deer are most active during these times.

In the event of a collision, Griffiths advises pulling over to the roadside, turning on hazard lights, and contacting the police. “You are required to report any crash involving a deer that involves over $1,000 worth of damage to your car, and that’s partially for insurance. If there’s an injury, you’re required to call and report it too,” she added.

Griffiths emphasized that police can assist with insurance claims and documenting damage. For safety, drivers should not attempt to handle deer themselves and should contact animal control instead.