"Deer-Vehicle Crashes" by Randy Williams, Regional President, AAA Minnesota/Iowa.

BURNSVILLE, Minn. -- It is that time of year again. Deer are on the move due to the mating and hunting seasons. Despite the fact that each year approximately 200,000 hunters harvest nearly 211,000 deer, our Iowa deer herd is still estimated at 450,000 - 500,000.

While Iowans naturally have an admiration for the beauty of the deer, this time of year can be quite dangerous as deer-vehicle crashes increase dramatically. The causes are quite easy to understand. The deer population is increasing. More vehicles than ever are on the roadways. In addition, our metro areas are expanding into natural deer habitats. All of these factors contribute to a dangerous season for deer-vehicle crashes.

Not only is the problem significant in Iowa where over the last ten years more than 13,000 deer-vehicle crashes have been reported on average yearly, but also nationwide where more than a million crashes per year kill more than 200 motorists, injure more than 29,000, and result in property damage of more than $1 billion.

According to the Department of Natural Resources, deer are amazing creatures as they can run at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour and leap over an 8-foot-tall fence. The average adult female white-tailed deer can weigh about 145 pounds, while males can weigh about 170 pounds.

In October 2003, AAA Minnesota/Iowa collaborated with the Iowa Department of Public Safety, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Iowa Department of Transportation and various insurance and law enforcement agencies to organize "Don't Veer for Deer". This safety campaign was developed to help educate the public on how to avoid crashes or prevent serious injuries or deaths in the event of a deer-vehicle crash. According to the Iowa Department of Public Safety, deer-vehicle fatalities dropped 60%, from 10 in 2003 to 4 in 2005.

AAA Minnesota/Iowa would like to offer some advice regarding how to reduce the likelihood of a deer-vehicle collision. Look out for deer as you drive regardless of the time of day. The hours around dusk and dawn are especially important since deer are moving more during these times. If possible, make yourself aware of heavily populated deer areas along your routinely traveled roadways and reduce your speed accordingly. Remember deer are herd animals, so if you see one, more are likely nearby. Most importantly, when riding in any vehicle remember to wear your seat belt. Safety belts have proven to provide the best defense to survive any collision.

If a deer-vehicle collision is unavoidable, AAA Minnesota/Iowa has more advice to share. Do not swerve out of your lane or lose control of your vehicle. It is generally safer to hit the deer rather than risk hitting another motorist, utility pole or other fixed object. Apply your brakes firmly, hold on to the steering wheel and bring your vehicle to a controlled stop. If you have struck a deer, do not remove it from the roadway unless you are positive it is dead. An injured deer's sharp hooves can severely hurt you. Finally, report the crash to the nearest law enforcement agency.

With the holidays just around the corner, make sure you are there to enjoy them with your family and friends. Remember don't veer for deer!

AAA offers automotive, travel, insurance and financial services to more than 49 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA Minnesota/Iowa is part of The Auto Club Group, with 4.1 million members in eight Midwest states.