Mayo County Council is advising motorists to take extra care while driving as deer can suddenly cross the road and lead to collision. This time of the year is when the deer mates and they travel several miles and usually cross busy roads.
Rutting season – where male deer clash horns over mating rights with females – begins in October and runs into November.
Drivers should note that the most common times for the male deer to roam are at dawn and dusk, which in October coincides with the morning and evening rush-hours.
In a statement, a road safety official has said: “Drivers should beware of deer causing fatal accidents by bolting across roads. With fewer cars on the roads over the last few months because of Covid-19, we’ve seen all sorts of wildlife being bolder, and deer are no exception.
“We would urge motorists to be cautious and drive a little slower at this time of the year, especially on rural and semi-rural roads.”
The report states that there are around 400/500 collisions between motorists and deer in Ireland each year, resulting in human injury.
If one jumps out it is highly likely others will follow so take that into account. Speed is a major factor in people being injured and the animals killed so ask – is it necessary to travel at excessive speed on these types of road?” said Noel Gibbons, road safety officer with Mayo County Council.
Follow these steps to avoid such collisions:
Reduce your speed in high-risk areas such as wooded areas close to major roads.
Use your headlights on full beam, when safe to do so.
Be aware that more deer may cross after the first one you see.
Brake firmly when you notice a deer in or near your path. Don’t over-swerve to avoid hitting it as you may potentially cause a more serious collision with other road users.
Leave a safe distance to the vehicle in front in case they have to take action to avoid a deer.
Be aware that stopping distances are often longer at this time of year due to damp roads and fallen leaves.
Source: Irish Mirror.