Tips on How to Avoid Deer

Our question this week was:

Hi Dr. Debra,

I know this isn't a "dog" question but I didn't know who else to ask. I live in the Midwest where there are a lot of deer. Do you have any tips on how to avoid hitting them with your car?

Robert King

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. You do keep me challenged with questions about everything! Thanks! I don't have much of a problem with deer in Miami (where I live) but I know lots of vets and friends all over the country that do live in areas with a large deer population.
What probably works best is being an attentive driver and maintaining a safe speed, especially at night. Use extra caution in the fog and rain when you may not be able to see well in front of you and conditions may be difficult to stop quickly.

Some experts say "don't override your headlights" which means that you should make sure that you have the maximum amount of time to react by driving safely. Deer are unpredictable. If you spot a deer beside the road, go slowly and in some cases – you may need to stop before you get to it and wait until the animal moves away from the road. Be careful not to stop dead in the road and get rear-ended!

Some drivers place deer detracters on their cars. These are small plastic devices that submit a high-frequency sound when air passes through them when your vehicle is moving. You can attach them to your bumper. The sound detracts deer and can be useful. I've talked so some people that swear by them. They are sold in most auto parts stores.

Do you have a tip for avoiding deer when you drive? Email me and maybe I can share it with our users!

Regards,

Dr. Debra

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