The Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office is reminding motorists to remain alert for whitetail deer along area roadways as seasonal fall behavior leads to increased movement.
Officials said drivers may notice more deer near or crossing roads during this time of year and encouraged motorists to take precautions regardless of the time of day.
The Sheriff’s Office offered several safety recommendations aimed at preventing animal-related crashes and reducing the severity of collisions when they cannot be avoided.
Motorists are encouraged to wear seat belts, obey speed limits and avoid following other vehicles too closely. Drivers should be especially cautious on roads surrounded by wooded areas or farmland and pay attention to posted animal-crossing signs.
At night, drivers can use high beams when there is no oncoming traffic to improve their chances of spotting deer. Officials advised watching for the reflection of animals’ eyes in headlights and looking for movement or shadows along the shoulders of the roadway.
Drivers should also remember that deer frequently travel in groups. Seeing one deer near the roadway could mean others are nearby.
One of the most important recommendations is to avoid swerving when an animal suddenly enters the roadway. The Sheriff’s Office warned that swerving could cause a driver to strike another vehicle, utility pole, guardrail or other object or could cause the vehicle to leave the roadway or roll over. If a collision cannot safely be avoided, motorists were advised to slow down as much as possible while maintaining control of the vehicle.
Officials also cautioned motorists against relying on deer whistles or similar devices to prevent collisions.
If a driver strikes an animal, the Sheriff’s Office recommends pulling over in a safe location, activating hazard lights and using reflective warning devices if available. Motorists should use caution around injured wildlife and contact law enforcement or 911 when necessary.
The Sheriff’s Office encouraged motorists to remain attentive throughout the fall as increased deer movement creates additional hazards on Claiborne Parish roadways.