Watch out for deer

It's that time of year again when drivers have to watch for deer darting across highways and roads.

"Deer movement increases during the fall breeding season, making it all the more important for motorists to drive defensively and stay alert, especially at dawn and dusk, to reduce the risk of striking a deer," said Allen D. Biehler, secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. "Motorists also need to be aware of hunters and others walking along roadways on their way into or out of the woods."

PennDOT is offering these tips to help you drive safely this fall:

-- Be on the alert for individuals entering the woods early in the morning and leaving in the late evening hours.

-- Pull vehicles as far off of the road as possible and remember that parking along limited access highways is prohibited except for emergencies.

-- Seek permission before parking on private property.

-- Wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight or a glow stick to help increase your visibility.

-- Make young drivers aware of increased deer movement.

-- Slow down and use caution, particularly where deer crossing signs are posted and increase following distance between vehicles.

-- Be especially watchful during morning and evening hours when wildlife is most active;
Exercise caution when one deer crosses a roadway. Since deer often travel in small herds, one deer will usually be followed by others.

-- Always wear your seat belt.

-- Never drink and drive.

-- Turn on your headlights if your wipers are on - it's the law.

If a dead deer presents an obvious safety hazard on state roadways, motorists can call 1-800-FIX-ROAD to have the deer removed, according to PennDOT.