Deer Season Driving Safety Tips for Arkansas Drivers

Late fall is the busiest time of year for deer on Arkansas roads. The rut has bucks on the move, hunters are pushing deer out of the timber, and since the clocks fell back, more of our daily driving happens at dawn and dusk. Whether you drive a Toyota, a Ford, or anything else, here's how to protect yourself and your vehicle this season from all of us at Red River Automotive Group.

Know When and Where Deer Cross

Dawn and dusk are peak times. Be extra alert on your morning commute and the drive home.
Watch the edges. Roads that run between woods and fields, along creeks, or past farmland are common crossing spots.
One deer usually means more. If one crosses in front of you, slow down and expect others to follow.
Take deer crossing signs seriously. They mark areas with a history of crossings.

Simple Ways to Lower Your Risk

Slow down on rural roads, especially in low light.
Use your high beams when there's no oncoming traffic, and watch the shoulders for eyeshine.
Keep your headlights and windshield clean, and replace hazy headlight lenses or dim bulbs.
Put the phone away and keep your eyes moving.
Make sure everyone in the vehicle is buckled up.

Brake Firmly. Don't Swerve.

If a deer jumps out in front of you, your instinct may be to jerk the wheel. Swerving can put you into oncoming traffic, a ditch, or a tree, which is often more dangerous than hitting the deer. Brake firmly, hold the wheel steady, and stay in your lane. A long honk may help scare the deer off the road.

Driver-assist systems like Toyota Safety Sense and Ford Co-Pilot360 can help in many situations, but they're designed mainly to detect vehicles and pedestrians and may not detect animals. Stay alert and in control.

If You Hit a Deer

Pull over to a safe spot and turn on your hazard lights.
Check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or the vehicle is blocking traffic.
Stay away from the deer. An injured animal can kick and cause serious harm.
Report the crash to local police or the Arkansas State Police. A report can help with your insurance claim.
Take photos of your vehicle and the scene.
Before driving on, check for leaking fluids, broken lights, a hood that won't latch, or loose parts. If anything looks wrong, call for a tow.
Contact your insurance company. Animal collisions are often covered under comprehensive coverage, but check your policy.

Get Your Vehicle Inspected

A deer strike can damage parts you can't easily see, like the radiator, cooling fans, headlight assemblies, and the cameras and sensors used by your safety systems. Our service teams can inspect your vehicle and get you back on the road safely.

Stay alert out there, and have a safe deer season.