Deer Dangers Lurking For Drivers In Lower Bucks Co.

LOWER BUCKS COUNTY, PA — There is a reason why "Bucks" is in the name of the county, especially during this time of the year.

TMA Bucks, Bucks County's transportation agency, is warning drivers about increased deer activity with fall's arrival.

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Deer activity is at one of its highest peaks as local law enforcement alert drivers and residents to be aware of deer during the dawn and dusk commutes.

Drivers should be vigilant for deer crossing roads, especially where deer crossing signs are posted.

TMA Bucks suggests that drivers slow down, increase their following distance, and be particularly cautious during dawn and dusk when deer are most active.

"Remember, deer often travel in groups, so if you see one, others are likely nearby," TMA Bucks stated

Local law enforcement agencies also is providing advice that encountering deer in the road "is dangerous and requires fast, calm action."

From sunset to midnight and during the hours shortly before and after sunrise are the highest risk times for deer-vehicle crashes, especially throughout the autumn breeding season (rut).

Authorities said that there has been an increase in vehicle vs. deer crashes within the past month, higher than last year.

Police say if a driver encounters deer in the road, they should immediately:

• BRAKE FIRMLY: Press your brakes straight and hard to slow down.

• STAY IN YOUR LANE: Do not swerve. Swerving often leads to loss of vehicle control, head-on crashes with other cars, or hitting trees or utility poles.

• WATCH FOR MORE DEER: Deer almost never travel alone. If one crosses, expect others to follow closely behind.

• USE YOUR HORN: A long blast of the horn can help scare the animal away from the road.