A deer crossing a roadway. File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / haveseenA deer crossing a roadway. File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo / haveseen
London

Drivers warned not to swerve for deer

One month, 30 collisions involving deer.

A large number of deer-related crashes over the past month has Elgin County OPP advising drivers not to veer when they see the animal crossing the roadway.

October and November are the most active months of the year for deer in southwestern Ontario. According to police, the greatest risk for hitting deer is one hour before and one hour after dusk and dawn.

Drivers are being urged to never swerve if a deer comes into their path, as doing so can result in the vehicle going off the roadway, causing serious injury or damage. Instead, drivers should brake firmly and stay in control of their vehicle, police said in a statement Thursday.

Police are also reminding drivers that if they see one deer there are probably more nearby, and so it is best to slow down to increase reaction time and stopping distance.

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