Tips for Driving In Deer Season 

During the fall months, you’re more likely to hit a deer than any other time of the year. That’s because between the months of October and December, deer are in their breeding season, known as “the rut.” During the autumn months, deer basically lose their minds in their quest to mate, running out in the road with even more disregard for their own lives than ever before, causing accidents that South Carolina car insurance companies pay millions to cover each year. 

But don’t let deer’s yearly insanity keep you from enjoying long rides through the state to enjoy the beauty of autumn in South Carolina. To keep yourself safer in deer season, and reduce your chance of having to file a claim with your auto insurance, here are five tips for driving in deer season. 

1. Take notice of deer crossing signs. 

Deer can’t read, but luckily, the people who install “Deer Crossing” signs can. Deer crossing signs are placed at points where known animal paths cross roadways and where deer-related accidents are common. If you see a deer crossing sign, pay special attention to the area and slow down – and you may save yourself a call to your auto insurance agency about a deer-related crash. 

2. Be extra alert at dawn and dusk 

Deer are most active in the early morning and late evening hours, which unfortunately coincide with the times it’s most difficult to see as a driver. During dawn and dusk, pay extra attention to the roadway and shoulders to look for deer. Keep your lights on, too, which can help you spot their reflective eyes in this distance. 

3. If you see one, slow down

Deer travel in herds, so if you see one, you can almost be certain that there are other deer around … and they may run out in front of your vehicle. If you see a deer, slow down and be attentive to what else is going on around you. 

4. Know how to hit a deer safely 

Sometimes, hitting a deer can’t be avoided. But there are better and worse ways to take the hit. With deer (and all animals), swerving to avoid a collision can lead to a more disastrous accident with another vehicle, a guardrail, or even running off the road and flipping your vehicle. The safest way to hit a deer is to slow down, stay in your lane, and stay calm. 

5. Make sure you’re covered with comprehensive auto insurance 

If you only have collision or liability auto insurance, the damage to your vehicle caused by hitting a deer would not be covered, and you’d be left paying for repairs out of pocket. Now’s the time to get comprehensive auto insurance so you’ll be covered during deer season, just in case. To learn more about comprehensive auto insurance in South Carolina, give Edwards Insurance Agency in Taylors, SC a call today. We’d be happy to help you find great coverage at a price that doesn’t break your budget. Give us a call today!