Beware! Deer Crossing!:

TÜV AUSTRIA cautions drivers

148 traffic accidents related to deer collisions were recorded in 2008 on the streets of Austria. They resulted in 2 dead and 159 injured, 25 of whom were reported as serious (Source: Statistics Austria, "Traffic Accidents and Personal Injuries 2008"). TÜV AUSTRIA experts have now issued recommendations for greater safety.

It is especially in spring and autumn that deer crossings increase. Crash tests have shown that more than a ton impacts on a car in a collision with an animal weighing 55kg at a speed of 40km/h. A risky evasive manoeuvre still turns out be even more dangerous than the collision itself. Deer accidents mostly take place in the evening or at dawn, and during rutting time in tree-covered areas, and also on streets that have been built close to farming areas.

In order to prevent an accident in advance, TÜV AUSTRIA expert Christian Kubik recommends: “Pay particular attention to relevant traffic signs which warn of possible deer crossings at predestined places ("Beware of Deer Crossings!"), and keep a close look on the edge of the street." Especially in such areas should one be prepared to brake in a split second and therefore adapt the driving speed accordingly.

If an animal appears on the street:

Deflect the head lights to avoid irritating the deer
Brake to reduce speed
Operate the signal horn
Deers appear in groups, so you have to expect to encounter not only one but always several animals

If collision is imminent:

In case of an imminent collision with a large animal (roe, stag, boar) execute an emergency stop
Grip the steering wheel tightly with both hands
Do not execute risky evasive manoeuvres, stay on track; one's own safety and that of the other traffic participants always come first

If a collision has occurred:

Switch on warning lights
Put on warning vest before leaving the vehicle
Secure the crash site with a warning triangle. Call the police (also if there is only material damage). Insurance claims require an official police report of the accident.

Further information:

Dipl.-Ing. Christian KUBIK
TÜV AUSTRIA AUTOMOTIVE GMBH
Phone: +43 (0) 1 610 91-6438
Fax: +43 (0) 1 610 91-6555
eMail: kuc@tuv.at

Mag. (FH) Rahman PADSHAH
TÜV Österreich
Phone: +43 (0)1 514 07-6031
Fax: +43 (0)1 514 07-6005
eMail: pad@tuv.at