WFR called to respond to a motor vehicle collision with a deer early this morning. Rescue 51 dispatched for fluid spill clean up on non injury accident. A early morning motorist struck the deer near 2510 9th Ave SW.

Deer Season Safe Driving Tips

1.Always wear your seat belt – Sixty percent of fatal animal crashes occurred when the driver was not wearing a seat belt.

2.Know the likely deer-crossing zones – Whether or not a road is marked with a Deer Crossing Sign, be especially alert for deer when driving on roads or highways on the outskirts of town and in rural areas – especially where roads divide farm land from wooded land.

3. Know when deer are on the move – Be especially careful between 5 AM and 8 AM and between 5 PM and midnight.

4. Don’t rely on devices – Items like deer whistles, deer fences and reflectors have not been proven effective at deterring deer crossing roadways.

5. Brake firmly if you notice a deer near the road – Slow down and stop if necessary. Be careful not to swerve out of your lane either into on-coming traffic or off the shoulder and into a ditch.

6. Keep your distance – If you do strike a deer, don’t approach it. An injured deer is frightened and can injure you as well as further injuring itself. If the deer is blocking the roadway, it poses a threat to other drivers; so call the authorities immediately.

7. Contact your insurance agent – If you strike a deer and have damage to your vehicle or damage to some else’s property, notify your insurance representative as soon as possible and provide the necessary details.