"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 because of the mating and hunting seasons. Despite the fact that each year approximately 500,000 hunters harvest nearly 200,000 deer, our Minnesota deer herd is still estimated at 1.3 million.

While Minnesotans naturally have an admiration for the beauty of 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.

Our local problem is part of a larger national problem. During the last 10 years in Minnesota, reported deer-vehicle crashes tops more than 5,100 annually. Nationwide, more than one million deer-vehicle crashes are reported per year, including more than 200 human deaths, 29,000 human injuries, and property damage totals more than $1 billion.

According to the Minnesota 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.

Having found that deer warning signs are generally ineffective, numerous are experimenting with various types of system warning devices to reduce these serious crashes. According to the Minnesota Department of Transportation, Minnesota will be implementing in December near Marshall to attempt to reduce these crashes. If it is successful, it may roll out in other areas across the state in the future.

In the meantime, AAA Minnesota/Iowa would like to offer some advice regarding how to reduce the likelihood of a deer-vehicle crash. Look out for deer as you drive regardless of the time of day. The hours around dusk and dawn are especially dangerous 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 crash.

If a deer-vehicle crash is unavoidable, 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.