First responders, such as firefighters, police officers, and EMTs, and medical professionals, are vital members of our community. They selflessly go to work each day and provide essential services that keep our communities a safer place. It's hard, exhausting work, and they sacrifice their time and lives in our time of need to keep the rest of us safe and healthy. There is a lot of information they have and want to share with the public, and that is what this community blog will be about: They are providing essential information to the public. Agencies involved include: Air Evac Lifeteam 39 Brazil Bowling Green Volunteer Fire Department Brazil Police Department Center Point Volunteer Fire Department Clay County Sheriff's Office Dick Johnson Volunteer Fire Department Van Buren Volunteer Fire Department Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita Indiana State Police - Putnamville District (If your agency would like to be involved, please call The Brazil Times at 812-446-2216.)

ISP: Safety Tips for Avoiding Deer on the Roadway

Posted Friday, October 21, 2022, at 4:28 PM

Putnamville State Police Post Safety Tips for Avoiding Deer on the Roadway

It’s that time of year again for drivers to be aware of deer darting into and crossing the roadways. Last year in the state of Indiana there were over 15,000 accidents involving deer. Out of those accidents there were 366 with injuries and two fatalities. The Putnamville State Police Post would like to pass along a few safety tips to help you avoid a possible collision with a deer this year.

Be cautious while driving during dusk or dawn hours

Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, but can appear at any time, especially during the mating season, which is in full swing from October through December. Please remember though that deer can appear at any time. Ensure that you and your passengers are wearing seat belts at all times, in case you need to make a sudden stop.

Pay attention to deer crossing signs

Be alert and observe your surroundings for any signs of deer while on the road. Deer are abundant in forested areas, so it’s important to drive cautiously even if you’re no longer in a deer-crossing zone.

Stay alert if you spot a deer

Deer tend to travel in packs so if you see one deer, slow down and proceed with caution, be prepared for more to follow. If you see a deer, slow down, tap your brakes to warn others, or flash your lights and sound your horn to warn other motorists. It will give everyone an opportunity to slow down.

Take precautions when driving at night

If there is no oncoming traffic, turn on your bright lights. You’ll not only be able to see clearer, but you’ll have a greater chance of spotting a deer from a distance and allow you to react accordingly.

Don’t swerve to avoid hitting a deer

Do not swerve to avoid a deer collision. By swerving you put yourself at risk for a worse collision with another motorist or running off the roadway. Brake firmly and stay in your lane.

Report the deer-vehicle collision

If you happen to get involved in an accident, contact local authorities to report it so you can get an accident report for your insurance company.

Remember deer are unpredictable and could dart into traffic at any time, so be alert at all times!

Indiana State Police Putnamville wants everyone to buckle up and hopes that everyone travels safely during this time of year.