|
Been driving since 1966, never hit a Deer. Almost got nailed by a falling tree once.
Another time by a tire and wheel that bounced off another car and flew up in the air about 60 feet.
Over half a million miles. Maybe the guy who taught me got it right since he had to dodge 88 MM in a 4 engine bomber.
A friend was driving a Chevy Van and hit a Deer. It came through the windshield and they had to open the side door to let it out of the van.
Mom (born 1925) and Pop born 1921 were driving down US 1 in the Florida Keys in 1979, when a drunk in a Cadillac came into their lane. She neatly swerved around the oncoming 5k LB Caddy in their 2k Accord (1977 I rebuilt totalled).
Both are still here and doing well, but they both drive Eldorados that get close to 30 MPG highway. Not a Deer strike by either in their lifetimes.
A Frank said situational awareness is paramount. Also avoiding the hours when Deer are most active, especially during the rut, and their are plenty around here, as evidenced by their carcasses at the side of the road. In many cases I have made route choices based on the probability of a Deer strike, and when I drive on roads that are notorious for Deer strikes, I consider that the greatest danger after drunks.
If I had to hit a Deer I would choose a 95-99 Riviera, probably just jack the Deer into the atmosphere and still hit 30 MPG if driven conservatively. Probably could haul a decent trailer as well.
regards
Mech
|