Scottish motorists were yesterday warned of an increased risk of “catastrophic” collisions with sexually-excited deer.
Collisions with deer are statistically higher during the autumn months due to this being their mating season, according to the UK’s largest road safety group, the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM).
The IAM says deer are a higher risk between sunset to midnight, also the hours before and after sunrise.
IAM head of driving and riding standards, Richard Gladman, said: “October through to December is considered a high-risk period.
“A collision with any animal is unpleasant and we should make every effort to avoid this. A collision with something as large as a deer will be catastrophic. It will likely cause injury to vehicle occupants and itself.
“It will definitely cause damage to your vehicle. Slow down a little and remember we are sharing the wildlife’s habitat and not the other way around.”
He added: “If you’ve hit a deer or see an injured animal on the roadside, drive to a safe place and pull over. Call the police to alert them and be precise about where it’s located. Do not approach the animal – that may cause further injury or another accident.”
