Animal collisions on the rise in Delaware

As we approach the last couple of months of the year, the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control reminds Delaware drivers to remain aware on the roads, at all times.

According to AAA Mid-Atlantic, Delaware has been named one of the top ten states in the nation for animal strikes, totaling 1,227 animal related vehicle crashes just last year.

Many animals, especially deer, are active at both dawn and dusk. Typically from 5-8 AM and 5-8 PM which are also prime time commuter hours.

AAA Mid-Atlantic has provided safety tips for drivers listed below:

• Be extremely attentive while driving during early morning and evening hours.
• If you see one deer, slow down immediately, as deer rarely travel alone, but are likely to be in herds. Always use high beams when there is no oncoming traffic, This gives you time to spot a deer sooner.
• Don’t swerve, but stay on your brakes, swerving will confuse the animal, making it not sure of which way to run. Lastly, always wear your seat belt, chances of injuries are much higher without seat belt on while driving.