October 14 , 2021 The Beacon • 3
It ’ s peak time for deer-related crashes
AAA , The Ohio Department of Insurance , Ohio State Highway Patrol and Ohio Department of Natural Resources want to remind motorists of the increase in deer-related traffic crashes this time of year .
Since 2016 statistics from the Ohio State Highway Patrol show there were 100,672 deer-related crashes on Ohio ’ s roadways . While 95 % of deer-related crashes only resulted in property damage , 27 crashes resulted in fatal injuries to motorists with 28 killed . Additionally , nearly half ( 47 %) of these crashes occurred in October , November and December .
“ As we enter the peak season for car-deer collisions in Ohio , I encourage drivers to use extra caution and slow down , especially at dawn or dusk when deer are more active ,” Gov . DeWine said . “ A crash with a deer can be just as destructive as a crash with another vehicle , so it ’ s important that drivers remember to stay alert and watch out for animals crossing the road .”
Some of the top counties for deer-related crashes include Stark , Richland , Lorain , Trumbull and Hancock with I-71 , U . S . -30 and I-80 being the leading roadways in the state .
“ Always avoid distractions and keep your full focus on the roadway ,” Col . Richard Fambro of the Ohio State Highway Patrol said . “ If you see a deer , slow down but do not swerve . If you strike a deer , move to a safe place if you are able , turn on your hazard lights and report the crash .”
According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources , deer become visibly active from late October through November . This is due in large part to the fall breeding season . While males pursue prospective mates throughout the season , they often encounter females that are not yet willing to breed , which can result in pursuits where deer will dart into roadways with little caution . This unpredictable movement leads to an increase in deer-related vehicle crashes . Drivers are encouraged to be extra cautious in areas where fence rows , riparian corridors or other blocks of forested habitat intersect a roadway .
“ As motorists have likely noticed , deer are very visible and active in the fall ,” ODNR wildlife chief Kendra Wecker said . “ If you see one deer , be on the lookout for others nearby . Deer rarely run alone .”
Cost of deer-vehicle collisions
Colliding with a deer is not only dangerous , but also increasingly costly . Recent data estimates the average insurance claim for a deer-vehicle collision in Ohio is more than $ 4,000 . Vehicle sensors found on newer vehicles continue to increase repair costs . In fact , AAA found these new safety systems can double repair bills for minor collisions . Without adequate insurance , drivers are left footing this bill , which is why it ’ s important to make sure you ’ re covered before a crash occurs .
“ In the event of an accident , it ’ s important to have adequate insurance for financial protection ,” Ohio Department of Insurance director Judith L . French said . “ Now is the time for Ohioans to contact their insurance agents to complete an insurance review .”
AAA and the Ohio Department of Insurance remind drivers that the optional comprehensive coverage ( also known as “ other than collision ” coverage ) portion of an auto insurance policy often is used to pay for deer-vehicle damage repair . Collision
See DEER Page 5
or liability-only policies do not cover the damage . With the vast number of costly deer collisions on Ohio ’ s roads , it is often a good idea to evaluate maintaining comprehensive coverage , even with older vehicles .
“ Although deer and other animals are unpredictable , there are actions you can take to help prevent a crash or reduce the
BF-00533077
damage from a collision ,” said Ed Conley , director of insurance operations for AAA Ohio Auto Club .
How to avoid animal collisions
Scan the road ahead : Looking ahead helps provide enough reaction time if an animal is spotted . Also , remember some animals , like deer , move in groups , so when there is
one , there are usually more in the area .
Use high-beam headlights if there is no oncoming traffic : This can help you spot deer or other wildlife more quickly and give you time to slow down , move over or honk the horn to scare the animal away . High beams also help in spotting animals ’ reflective eyes .
BF-00533057
Good Food , Friends & Entertainment !
COSHOCTON MOOSE FAMILY CENTER 935 120 Main St ., Coshocton
BINGO every Mon . & Wed . - Open to the public
740-622-9141
Ask any member how you can join ! Lunch Specials & Gaming Tickets
Large Selection of Lift Chairs
NOW IN STOCK !
# 9MW51 # 9DW11
# 8NW11
Lift Chairs available in petite , medium and large .
We can help you find a lift recliner that ’ s perfect for your size and space .
230 Main Street • Coshocton 740.622.6237 www . wilsonfurn . com STORE HOURS : Mon-Fri 9am-6pm , Sat 9am-3pm