For decades, the risks posed by deer and other animals on the road were not a significant concern. Despite frequent rides through mountain regions and deer-heavy areas—often after dark—actual encounters with animals on the road were rare. That perspective changed one night in the coastal mountains of Southern California when a small mule deer leaped onto the road. At 40 mph, the impact sent the deer tumbling off a cliff, but the motorcycle remained upright. Around the same time, another rider experienced a more severe encounter, striking a deer at higher speeds, resulting in a crash. Protective gear played a crucial role in preventing serious injury.
The Rising Risk of Animal Collisions
In recent years, deer encounters have become more frequent, likely due to increasing deer populations and expanding human development into rural areas. In Michigan alone, a deer-vehicle crash occurs every eight minutes. Nationwide, approximately 700,000 deer collisions happen annually, leading to around 150 fatalities and over a billion dollars in damages.
Motorcyclists face a disproportionately high risk. Data from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation indicates that while only 2% of car-deer collisions result in fatalities, nearly 85% of motorcycle-deer crashes prove fatal for the rider. Other large animals—moose, bison, cattle, and even dogs—also contribute to these dangerous incidents.
Strategies for Reducing Deer-Vehicle Collisions
Efforts to mitigate these accidents include fencing, roadside deterrents, deer population control, and improved lighting. Some strategies show promise, such as roadside reflectors that cause deer to freeze before stepping onto the road. However, commonly used deer whistles lack strong evidence to support their effectiveness.
Practical Tips for Motorcyclists
To reduce the risk of an animal collision while riding:
- Expect More Than One: Deer travel in groups. If one is spotted, others are likely nearby.
- Heed Warning Signs: Pay attention to deer-crossing signs, especially during peak activity times—dusk and dawn in fall and spring.
- Improve Visibility: Additional driving lights or high-wattage bulbs enhance visibility at night.
- Use Noise to Your Advantage: Honking or revving the engine may startle deer off the road, though results vary.
- Watch for Movement Anomalies: Flickering roadside reflectors or gaps in fences may indicate an animal’s presence.
- Keep a Safe Distance: Large animals such as bison, moose, and elk can become aggressive if approached too closely.
- Stay Clear of Injured Animals: A wounded deer or moose can act unpredictably and pose a danger to anyone nearby.
What to Do If a Collision Is Unavoidable
- Do Not Swerve: Swerving can lead to a loss of control and an even more dangerous crash.
- Brake Hard: Reduce speed as much as possible before impact while maintaining control.
- Stay Stabilized: Keep the motorcycle upright to increase the chances of remaining on two wheels.
- Wear Protective Gear: Proper gear, including a helmet, can make the difference between a minor injury and a fatal outcome.
- Spread Out in Group Rides: This prevents multiple riders from being taken down if one collides with an animal.
Additional Insights on Large Animal Collisions
Moose pose an even greater threat than deer. They are larger, harder to see, and less likely to reflect light. Unlike deer, moose tend to move across roads in a way that makes them nearly invisible until it’s too late. Riders should be particularly cautious in areas with known moose populations, watching for “twinkling” headlights that indicate legs passing through beams.
Springtime and swampy areas are also high-risk zones, as animals congregate near roads to access salt and water. Additionally, small animals such as raccoons and porcupines can be hazardous, as their round bodies roll under tires, potentially causing a loss of control.
Final Thoughts
Motorcycle riders should remain vigilant when traveling through animal-prone areas. Awareness, defensive riding, and proper gear are the best defenses against these unpredictable hazards. While there is no perfect solution to avoiding wildlife on the road, preparation and quick thinking can mean the difference between a close call and a catastrophic accident.
