Motorcycles and Deer Crashes
Posted on Oct 5, 2012 8:49am PDT
Did you know that there is an organization in Michigan called “Michigan Deer Crash Coaliton?” Well, there is. With good reason. There were approximately 8,000 motor vehicle and motorcycle crashes involving deer in 2011. Here are some recommendations from this group.
- Slow down. It gives you more time to react.
- If you’re riding your motorcycle, ride with the front brake covered to reduce reaction time.
- Use high beams and additional driving lights when possible.
- If riding in a group of motorcycles, spread out in a staggered formation. If one rider hits a deer, this will lessen the chance that other riders will be involved.
- It’s time to bring out that protective gear, regardless of the weather.
- Watch out for deer especially at dawn and dusk. They are most active then, especially in the fall mating season.
- Deer often travel single file. If you see one cross a road, chances are that there are more nearby waiting to cross.