Kalamazoo, MI – As deer activity rises during late fall, the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office is reminding drivers not to swerve when deer appear suddenly on the road. The warning, part of the department’s “Don’t Veer for the Deer” campaign, emphasizes that the most serious vehicle-deer crashes happen when drivers lose control while trying to avoid the animal.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, motorists are urged to brake firmly, stay in their lane, and hold the steering wheel with both hands. “It’s instinct to swerve, but that reaction can lead to a more severe collision with another car, a tree, or even a rollover,” the agency explained in its advisory.
If a crash with a deer is unavoidable, officials recommend bringing the vehicle to a controlled stop and calling law enforcement to report the incident. Drivers should stay buckled, turn on their hazard lights, and move to the shoulder if it is safe to do so. If the car is in traffic and cannot be moved, occupants should exit carefully and stand at a safe distance from the roadway.
This seasonal reminder comes as deer-related collisions spike across Michigan each fall, particularly during dawn and dusk hours. Motorists are encouraged to remain alert in wooded or rural areas and follow posted deer crossing signs.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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