Watch out for deer

The highway west of Sisters has seen several vehicle vs. deer collisions in recent days. Heavier traffic, poor visibility during long twilight hours and deer on the move make a potentially deadly mix.

Collisions with deer are no small matter; they can cause severe damage to a vehicle and can threaten life and limb. A motorcyclist was killed near Grants Pass last week when a deer jumped into the roadway. The Harley Davidson rider struck the deer and crashed fatally.

To avoid collisions:

• Be attentive at all times, especially sunset to sunrise, for any potential hazard on or near the highway.

• When driving in areas that have special signs indicating the possible presence of animals/wildlife use extra caution because these signs are posted for a reason.

• Remember that the presence of any type of animal/wildlife could also mean that others are nearby.

• When you see an animal/wildlife near or on the roadway, reduce your speed and try to stay in your lane. Many serious crashes are the result of drivers swerving to avoid wildlife or other obstacles, and they crash into another vehicle or lose control of their own vehicle.

• When driving a passenger vehicle, always wear your safety belt because any collision could result in serious injuries.