Norfolk OPP urge drivers not to veer for deer

Norfolk OPP are warning drivers to be wary of deer on roadways after investigating several collisions.

Police say that the best way to stay in control when confronted by deer is to slow down and steer straight.

If you suddenly have a deer in your path, we encourage drivers to stay in control, reduce as much speed as possible, and whatever you do, steer straight. Don't veer for the deer," said Const. Ed Sanchuk, Norfolk County OPP in a press release.

By changing your direction quickly, you increase the risk of losing control, running off the roadway and rolling your vehicle. This increases the likelihood of sustaining greater damage to your vehicle and serious injury."

Deer and vehicle collisions increase at sunrise and sunset, police say.

More OPP tips to avoiding deer:

• 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.

• 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.

Jennifer Moore is an editorial assistant at The Spectator. jmoore@thespec.com