Avoiding collisions with wildlife Published Oct. 18, 2010 By Rod Krause 5th Bomb Wing Ground Safety MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- It is during the fall and winter seasons when animal related vehicle collisions occur the most. It is during this time of the year when wild animals, especially deer, go out and actively seek food everywhere they can. According to a 2009 statistics report from the United Services Automobile Association, North Dakota had the seventh highest frequency rate of animal-vehicle collisions in the country. Across the country there is an upward trend for these animal related accidents beginning in September, with November spiking as the month with the highest number of accidents. Collisions with animals can be very costly for many Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen. The USAA report also found an average claim in 2009 for these types of accident was $2,886. Deer strikes occurred most often between 7 and 8 a.m. and during the evenings from 6 to 10 p.m. North Dakota's heavy deer population has affected many drivers' pocketbooks across the state. The state's Department of Transportation reported in 2009 there were a total of 3,519 deer related accidents. That is slightly down from 2008's total of 3,656 animal collisions and down even more from 2007's number of 4,118. This past November was the worst month for deer related accidents, in 2009 they totaled 809. Despite these shocking statistics there are various tips drivers can follow to avoid these types of accidents. According to Linda Butts, the state's DOT deputy director of driver and vehicle services, "Drivers should always wear a seat belt whether driving on a highway or a rural road, and need to be especially vigilant during the early morning and evening hours." A good way to avoid collisions in general is by driving at the speed designated by the road. The main reason is drivers would be more apt to slam on their breaks if they are driving fast. Avoiding deer or any other animal on the road is much more difficult when speeding. It would take longer to bring the cart to a halt before it comes close to hitting the animal. Allowing more time to react to deer on the road is important. Thus, following speed limits, or going lower than the required speed limit in areas where deer are prevalent, is one of the best ways to avoid hitting a deer this winter. Using high beams is likely to help in preventing collision encounters with deer is because it helps one see farther away than headlights alone. There are many areas where high beams are allowed including secluded back roads or wooded areas which are areas where deer enjoy hiding out. However, it is also important to keep in mind that using high beams is not allowable in certain areas, such as highways or main roads. Having a great visual of what is ahead gives drivers the opportunity to react and be more alert and aware of surroundings. Another good way of preventing road collisions with animals is to avoid distractions. A few distractions can include talking on a cell phone while driving, fumbling with the vehicles audio system, or even eating while on the road. These types of distractions can keep drivers' eyes off the road which in turn could lead to accidents. The less the distracted, the more likely drivers will know what is on the road ahead. Unfortunately, there will be situations where colliding with a deer will be entirely inevitable. If deer pop out of nowhere and there is no time to react in any way to avoid a collision then sometimes the best thing to do is to hit them straight on. The reason being is more injuries and deaths occur from those who choose to swerve drastically and ultimately land themselves slammed up against a tree or telephone pole. Even though the vehicle will endure heavy damages if it collides head on with the animal; it is more likely the injuries drivers face will not be half as bad as if they had swerved. Whenever drivers find themselves in an animal related collision, it is important they contact law enforcement officials to report the crash. Attempting to move to the side of the roadway should only be done when road conditions allow for it. In case drivers are involved in deer collisions and the animal involved poses a road hazard, they are encouraged to contact the state's DOT district office in Minot at 837-7625, or the North Dakota State Radio at 1-800-472-2121 to have designated officials deal with the situation.