49°
"White-tailed deer may unexpectedly dart onto the roads and cause accidents," Police Chief Jacqueline Luthcke said Wednesday. "Motorists are urged to be especially attentive and cautious during the morning and evening hour commutes."
The chief cited several village areas with high deer concentrations:
- South Maple Avenue near the intersection at Prospect Street;
- Grove Street from the Paramus border to the Glen Rock border;
- Linwood Avenue near Paramus Road;
- Route 17 North and South;
- East Ridgewood Avenue near the Duck Pond;
- East and West Saddle River Road;
- Lincoln Avenue near the Glen Rock border;
She also offered some tips:
*Pay attention to “Deer Crossing” signs and be aware of all wooded areas. These areas have a high concentration of deer;
*If you see a deer, slow down and pay attention to possible sudden movements. Don't go around the deer but instead wait for the deer to move away;
*Utilize your high beams after dark when safe to do so -- they'll be reflected by the eyes of the deer;
*If you see one deer, there likely are more. Deer ordinarily travel in families and cross the roadways in single-file, so be on guard;
*DON'T tailgate. Remember the vehicle in front of you might have to stop suddenly to avoid hitting a deer;
*If a collision appears inevitable, do not swerve into the opposite lane of traffic to avoid impact. Those types of collisions are more likely to become more serious or even fatal because of the increased possibility of hitting another car or tree;
*Always wear a seatbelt -- it's the law. Drive safely and cautiously.
*Report any deer-vehicle collisions to police.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Ridgewood and receive free news updates.
