Living with deer: we've moved into their neighborhood. Now guess who's coming to dinner

Animals, Fall, 2002 by Brian Lavendel

* Use extreme caution if driving at dawn and dusk, when deer are most active and visibility is poor. This is especially true during peak commuter traveling times.

* Look ahead as you drive, use high beams whenever possible, and watch the roadside for eye shine. Don't rely on deer whistles or high-beam headlights to deter deer.

* If a deer freezes in the middle of the road, flash your headlights and honk your horn.

* Never swerve to avoid hitting a deer--simply apply your brakes. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or lose control of their cars.

* Slow down when approaching deer standing near roadsides. Deer may bolt of change direction at the last minute.

* If you see a deer cross the road, slow down and use extreme caution. Deer often travel in groups--if you see one, expect more.

* Use flashers or a headlight signal to warn other drivers when deer are spotted on of near the road.

* Use caution and be alert when passing through areas marked with deer crossing signs. These signs are placed in areas that have shown a high incidence of deer-vehicle collisions.

Brian Lavendel is a contributing editor for Animals.