People hit deer year-round in Michigan but the majority of accidents happen in the spring and fall.

While it may not be 100% unavoidable in every case, there are certainly steps that drivers can take to reduce the risk.

See Also: Northern MI Woman Photographs Beautiful Bobcat on Her Property

According to Michigan.gov, each year, there are nearly 50,000 reported vehicle-deer crashes in Michigan. About 80 percent of these crashes occur between dusk and dawn on two-lane roads.

Canva
Canva
loading...

What to Do if a Deer Runs Out in Front of Your Vehicle

The one thing you don't want to do is swerve. Unfortunately, it's a normal human response. Most serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid deer. They will more than likely hit another vehicle or a fixed object causing their vehicle to roll over.

If you don't have time to hit the brakes, the best thing to do is simply stay in your lane and just blast into the deer. It sounds awful but it's the safest thing to do.

What to Do After You Hit a Deer?

The first thing you should do is call the police to report the accident. You're not legally required to but it will make things a lot easier when filing an insurance claim.

The second thing you should do is call your insurance company. Don't procrastinate, make that call right away.

Canva
Canva
loading...

How to Avoid Hitting a Deer in Michigan

Honestly, there's not much you can do to avoid hitting a deer. The best thing you can do is simply pay attention to your surroundings. Watch your speed and keep an eye out along the side of the road when driving. At night, you can sometimes see their reflective beady little eyes which indicates they could jump out at any given moment.

1240 WJIM AM logo
Get our free mobile app

There are deer everywhere in my neighborhood and nearly every day I hit one. That's not an exaggeration, I have to be extremely cautious when driving. Last week I had my closest call when a deer ran out in front of me and I had to slam on my brakes. I swear that deer's tail brushed along the front of my truck. I got really lucky that day.

Get Planting: 10 Deer Resistant Flowers & Plants

We plant, and the deer eat. Not that we mind seeing the adorable four-legged friends making their way around our yards, but when they turn our hard work into their private banquet, that's a different thing. Planting these flowers & plants may keep Bambi and the gang away from your flower beds and gardens.

Gallery Credit: Unsplash/ Lowes

Abandoned Deer Acres Fun Park

Animals You Can Hunt All Year in Michigan

Gallery Credit: Maitlynn Mossolle

More From 1240 WJIM AM