Over the past three days, Chatham-Kent OPP officers have attended at two incidents involving deceased deer on the shoulder of Highway 401. There have been no motor vehicle collisions involving wildlife reported in the month of October to date.
Chatham-Kent Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers would like to remind drivers to be alert and keep a sharp eye out for deer and other wildlife that are more active during the fall.
The presence of wild animals is prevalent at this time of year, particularly with the removal of crops from the fields.
Helpful tips to minimize the chances of being involved in a collision with a wild animal are:
· Be attentive, especially from sunset to shortly after sunrise, as these are the highest risk times for deer-vehicle collisions.
· Scan the area ahead while driving.
· Slow down for better reaction time and use high beams when there is no oncoming traffic.
· Watch for glowing eyes of wild life. Deer seldom run alone. If you see one deer, others are likely nearby.
· Do not swerve suddenly. If you see wildlife, slow down, steer straight and stay in control of the vehicle.
· Always wear your seatbelt.
Remember that your first priority is safety; for you, your passengers and other motorists sharing the road.
