As the pumpkin spice latte season rolls on, and family travel plans for Thanksgiving begin to take shape, we at Presco would ask that everyone exercise caution while undertaking those roadways. That means, putting down the salted caramel mocha, scaling down those tunes, and keeping your eye out for deer and other wildlife that tend to make their appearances on the road this time of year.

According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS), data shows that the number of car crash deaths over a recent 10 year period, was over 1,941 across the United States. Unfortunately, most of these incidents occur in the fall and winter, as deer are on the move for mating season.  With the population of white-tail deer in the United States reaching over 30 million (and growing) it is time to use extra vigilance when driving on dark or rural roads.

This is also the time of year that Presco sees the greatest usage of their standard and specialty barricade tape. Both local law enforcement agencies and Emergency Management systems nationwide utilize our Day/Night barricade tapes, Hi-Viz barricade tape and many other customizable variations to maintain safe roadway barriers should an accident occur.

In an effort to keep our communities safe during this time of year, we ask that everyone follow a few safety tips to minimize the chances of wildlife related incidents.

  • Slow your roll! If you see a deer on the side of the road, slow down.
  • Don’t spook the deer or provoke it. Deer have a habit of bolting into traffic and quickly changing directions (think, squirrel)
  • Deer tend to travel in groups, so if you see one, there is a good chance there are more close by, be attentive.
  • Do not swerve. If you see a deer on the side of the road, break firmly and don’t try and swerve away
  • Check for “Deer Crossing” signs, and take extra caution when entering these areas.

What do I do if I hit a deer?

  • If you DO collide with a deer, stay away from it. A scared deer can still cause bodily harm.
  • Remain in your car and find a safe place to park.
  • Call the police immediately and let them know if the deer is blocking traffic.
  • Call the game warden and DO NOT pick up the deer and attempt to relocate it. According to Gregg County Game Warden Todd Long, “”It is against the law to be in possession of a deer or any part of a deer that was killed on a public roadway”.

 

Fall is full of fun and amazing things, like county fairs, hay rides, and Black Friday sales! Make sure safety comes first and enjoy the season!