With nearly 600,000 hunters on the road during firearm deer season, it is important to remember that over 43 percent of vehicle-deer crashes occur in Michigan during the months of October, November and December.

Last year, 5 people were killed in deer crashes. Three were occupants in motor vehicles and two were motorcyclists. Another 1,400 people were injured in vehicle-deer crashes. In Michigan, vehicle-deer crashes are expensive, causing at least $130 million in damage annually. The state has a 1.7 million-strong deer herd. Deer frequently travel in groups. If you see one deer cross the road, chances are there are more nearby.

In 2020, there were 51,103 vehicle deer crashes, down 5.8% from 54,254 during 2019.

AAA offers these five fall safety tips:

Motorists

– Stay awake, alert and sober.

– Always wear a seat belt.

– Be especially alert at dawn and dusk.

– If you see one deer, slow down. Chances are there are others nearby.

– If a crash is unavoidable, don’t swerve, brake firmly, hold onto the steering wheel, stay in your lane and bring your car to a controlled stop.

Motorcyclists

– Stay awake, alert and sober.

– Slow down and be alert for deer whenever you ride.

– Cover the brakes to reduce reaction time.

– Use high beam headlights and additional riding lights when possible.

– Wear protective gear at all times.