What should you do if you see a deer on the road?

When you see a deer on the road, the best action is to slow down and be prepared to stop. This is because deer can be unpredictable; they may suddenly dart across the road or linger near the roadside, and reducing your speed allows for greater reaction time should the deer move. Additionally, many accidents involving deer occur when drivers are surprised by their sudden movement, especially during dusk or dawn when deer are most active.

By slowing down, you not only increase your chance of avoiding a collision but also give yourself time to assess the situation. If the deer does cross the road in front of you, being at a lower speed allows for safer braking. In areas known for deer crossings, it’s crucial for drivers to remain vigilant, as deer often move in groups, so if one crosses, others may follow closely behind.

The other options would not be advisable in this situation. Speeding up could increase the likelihood of a collision, while honking your horn might startle the deer, causing it to run into the road unpredictably. Swerving can lead to losing control of the vehicle or colliding with other objects or vehicles. Therefore, slowing down and preparing to stop is the safest and most responsible approach when encountering a deer on the road.