Last Thursday&8217;s incident in which a motorcyclist was injured when he struck a deer attempting to cross the interstate serves as a reminder to all drivers to be on the alert to the movement of deer herds this time of year.

Deer-vehicle crashes are most likely to occur during the autumn months because white-tailed deer increase their daily movements during the fall mating season.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety advises drivers and passengers alike to belt up and &8220;don&8217;t veer for deer.&8221; In fact, the department states that it&8217;s safer to hit a deer than to swerve into oncoming traffic or off the side of the road and risk hitting another vehicle or roadside object.

Of course, deer pose a higher risk to motorcyclists. The department states that a motorcyclist&8217;s best response is to slow down quickly and swerve around the animal &045; if traffic allows. Riders are encouraged to wear helmets and other protective gear to prevent injury or death in a crash.

The department offers these tips for motorists encountering a deer on the road.

– Brake firmly and bring the vehicle to a controlled stop.

– Buckle up. In case of a crash, a seat belt is the best defense. Motorcyclists should wear helmets.

– Drive at safe speeds (the posted speed limit or less).

– Slow down and prepare to stop as soon as you see a deer. It is safer to stop than to take evasive action.

– If you see one deer, watch for more; they frequently move in groups.

– If you hit a deer, call 911 or your local law enforcement agency.

– It is illegal to take a deer without a permit. You must obtain a permit to tag a deer before it can be legally transported. All law enforcement officers can issue such a permit after a deer-vehicle crash.

While it&8217;s impossible to tell just when a deer might appear ahead of you on the roadway, we encourage all drivers to stay alert this time of year especially and be ready for the unexpected.

Your life and the lives of your loved ones depend on it.