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Vehicle-Deer Safety

Vehicle-Deer Crashes in Southeast Michigan
There were 5,443 vehicle-deer crashes in Southeast Michigan in 2011 (down from 6,062 in 2010 and 6,560 in 2009). In 2011, there was two fatalities in Southeast Michigan involving deer compared to 8 fatalities in the state (down from 11 in 2010). One of 2 people killed were driving motorcycles. To address motorcycle safety, the Michigan Deer Crash Coalition (MDCC) has developed special safety tips for motorcyclists.

SEMCOG reminds drivers to buckle up, stay awake, alert, and slow down — remembering that safety belts are the best defense in any collision. Also, be alert for deer in the spring and fall, especially at dawn and dusk — heeding deer crossing and speed limit signs, particularly on two-lane roads.

If a crash is unavoidable, SEMCOG cautions drivers: not to swerve out of their lane to avoid deer. Instead, drivers should brake firmly while securely gripping the steering wheel to bring the car to a controlled stop. Then safely steer your vehicle off to the side of the road.

Maps
Southeast Michigan deer crash map (PDF, 1.60 MB)
Southeast Michigan deer crash table display (PDF, 489 KB)
State of Michigan deer crash table display (PDF, 374 KB)