Hollidaysburg-based state police have reported 10 accidents that were deer-related in the month of November.
Police advised motorists to watch out for deer. The state police also listed details on other accidents they investigated last month. In addition to the deer-related accidents, police said there was one accident involving a bear and a vehicle.
Last week, PennDOT advised motorists to use caution and to stay attentive for deer that come on to the roadways. Of course, hunters throughout the state have been in the woods during the latest deer hunting season, which began last week.
PennDOT advised that to be safe, drivers should also look for deer crossing signs, which are posted in areas where deer populations are especially high. Motorists are encouraged to slow down in these spots.
Even with all precaution, deer and other wildlife often collide with vehicles. Such situations can create safety hazards and unsightly scenes, according to PennDOT.
They advised motorists to report such accidents so that carcasses can be removed from roadways. In a press release, PennDOT District 9 said it was committed to removing dead deer from the roads and shoulders once the animal has been reported.
Residents can help by reporting the location of a deer carcass by calling 1-800-FIX-ROAD.
Callers should try to be as specific as possible in describing the location of an animal carcass. Helpful information includes the state route and section number (found on small white signs along the road), the direction of travel and any other useful location information.
Regarding November accidents, police said there was one DUI-related accident, six accidents were caused by high speed, four by careless driving, four by a vehicle turning into the path of another vehicle and three hit-and-run accidents. There were also six accidents caused by drivers not keeping their vehicles on the roadway, which was laned for traffic. Seat belt usage remained about the same.
State police recommended drivers slow down. They also said if you are tired, don’t push it. They advised tired drivers to delay their trip or pull over to a rest area and take a break.
Also, a new law is going into effect in January and PennDOT is also advising motorists about it. PennDOT said the law requires drivers to turn their headlights on anytime their wipers are in continuous or intermittent use due to weather or other atmospheric conditions such as fog or mist.
Motorists that do not comply with the new law could face a fine of $25. However, with fees and other associated costs, the penalty would approach $100.
