After a vehicle collided with a deer Sunday night, Barrie police are reminding motorists to be mindful of their surroundings.
Police got a call at 8:24 p.m., March 26, about a vehicle striking a deer on Townline Road, in the area of Essa and Salem roads.
Barrie police communications co-ordinator Peter Leon told BarrieToday it's that time of year when animals will be seeking any food they can get after a long winter.
“We don’t see this too often here, but anywhere there are wooded areas, we remind drivers to just keep a lookout for those animals who may be seeking some exposed bush or foliage,” he said.
“They’re hungry and looking to have a little snack and we know that deer don’t always look both ways before crossing the road.”
Leon said there were no injuries to anyone in the vehicle following the recent crash, but “the deer was a fatality.”
Police officials also suggest you check your vehicle, when you safely can, after any collision involving an animal.
“The people were not from the area, but did call to let us know," Leon said. "They were OK to leave, but in any case where you hit a larger animal, you should always make sure your vehicle is OK to continue on.
“When you are out of the way of other cars, just do a walk-around and make sure the under part of your vehicle is not damaged as well as the exterior," he added.
Leon said wildlife may be out during the dusk hours.
“It really is like learning to drive again as you’re scanning the road, looking for any potential hazards. Keep your lights on bright so you can see," he said. "Also, we don’t want to see anyone hit an animal, but the old advice is you never want to veer for deer. Obviously slow down if you can, but you don’t want to end up in a ditch or hitting another vehicle.”
