It’s estimated that 1 out of every 17 car collisions involves wildlife. Over 84 percent of wildlife collisions occur in good weather. If your car hits a deer, the average repair cost is almost $3,000. Although the risk of death in an animal collision is low, it is possible that you or your passenger could be severely injured in a collision with wildlife.
The Tulsa metro roads may not have many deer, but there are raccoons, dogs, squirrels and cats who can dart in front of your car. Deer can jump in front of your car on the turnpikes. And if you’re taking a drive around one of the many lakes, there’s no telling what could run out while you’re enjoying the view. Know what to do when you do come across an animal in front of your car and learn how to avoid a collision with an animal.
Avoid Wildlife Collisions Without Putting Your Car in Danger
Thinking about where you’re driving and when will help you consider the possible accidents. Deer tend to be more active at dusk and dawn. Bears and raccoons might be seen more at night. Look for the yellow animal-crossing signs and slow down when you see them.
Your headlights only illuminate 40 to 45 feet ahead of your car. Slow down at night in areas where you may see animals to give your car enough time to brake. Don’t assume that the animal will run off into the woods. Any animal might be startled and jump in front of your car. Your best bet is to slow down and even stop until the animal is safe.
It’s easier to anticipate accidents than it can be to avoid them. Watch for movement on the side of the road. Look for reflective eyes along the side of the road. When you see one deer, expect more. Many animals travel in packs or act as a herd. If one cow gets out of the fence, it’s likely that others will follow. Rather than moving when a threat approaches, the herd will stand its ground. Be extremely cautious in hunting season, late October and November, when deer can’t hide from danger. The leaves are off the trees. Instead, deer run to avoid danger.
Swerve or Don’t Swerve?
Experts recommend that you don’t swerve to avoid an animal collision. The exception might be for larger animals that weight over 1000 pounds. If you see a cow, bison or large deer, it might be better to try and avoid the accident, but you also have to take into account other vehicles on the road and the conditions. If you can’t avoid a collision with a deer or large animal, try to get low in your car. The legs of the animal may come crashing through the windshield, which will cause serious injury.
After a wildlife collision, bring your car to Battman Collision Repair in Sand Springs to have the vehicle checked for unseen damage. We handle auto body repair, bumper repair and auto restoration to keep you on the road.
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