Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) is warning motorists that collisions between deer and vehicles increase in certain parts of Scotland at this time of year.
Car accidents involving deer can peak at this time of year, as our clocks turn back. With the nights starting earlier, the peak commuting time coincides with deer coming out to feed on grass verges near roadsides.
From Monday, 24 October to Monday, 14 November, electronic variable messaging signs will warn motorists at key locations on the main trunk roads in Scotland, such as the A9, A835, A85, A82, and A87.
From the latest deer vehicle collisions project there are more than 7000 deer-related motor vehicle accidents every year in Scotland, on average causing about 70 human injuries. The economic value of these accidents is £5 million. Across the UK, it’s estimated there could be up to 74,000 deer-related motor vehicle accidents a year, resulting in 400 to 700 human injuries and about 20 deaths, with a cost of over £17m.
Recent research projects show the incidence and economic impact of deer vehicle collisions on trunk roads in the Highlands remain a problem. Particularly roads in North West Scotland, such as the A835, where deer may present a higher risk as red deer move backwards and forwards between summer and autumn mating ranges.
Jamie Hammond, SNH Deer Management Officer, said: “As autumn nights are drawing in, I’d advise drivers to be more aware than ever of the risks of deer on our roads. It’s more likely deer will be moving down from higher ground to graze in adjacent fields and this can lead them to cross roads at dawn and dusk.
“At this time of the year, we’d caution motorists to slow down and watch for deer crossing in front of traffic. Be particularly alert if you’re driving near to woodland areas where deer can suddenly appear before you have time to brake. If you do hit a deer, report it to the police, as the deer may be fatally injured and suffering.”
Other tips include:
– Try not to suddenly swerve to avoid hitting a deer. A collision into oncoming traffic could be even worse.
– Only break sharply and stop if there is no danger of being hit by following traffic. Try to come to a stop as far away from the animals as possible to allow them to leave the roadside without panic, and use your hazard warning lights.
– After dark, use full-beams when there is no oncoming traffic, as this will illuminate the eyes of deer on or near a roadway and give you more time to react. But dim your headlights when you see a deer or other animal on the road so you don’t startle it.
– Report any deer-vehicle collisions to the police, who will contact the local person who can best help with an injured deer at the roadside. Do not approach an injured deer yourself – it may be dangerous.