Motorists across Highlands urged to be vigilant for deer on roads
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Drivers are being urged to be alert to deer on the roads this winter.
Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) says the danger of deer-related road traffic accidents is predicted to rise due to the record number of wild deer in the country.
Collisions with large animals such as deer can be catastrophic, it warns, but there are some simple guidelines that can increase chances of avoiding an accident.
FLS has joined with RoSPA to offer guidance for evening and early morning driving when there are often more deer on the road.
Dr Karen McDonnell, head of RoSPA Scotland, said: “When driving on country roads you have to try to anticipate the unexpected.
“Single track lanes, blind corners, and even the possibility of animals crossing can make driving challenging even for the most experienced drivers. To minimise your chances of a collision with a large animal, such as a deer, follow some straightforward steps.”
Drivers are told to watch their speed, be aware of warning signs, slow down if you see a deer and look out for more and to use indicators to warn other drivers.
Ian Fergusson, head of wildlife management for FLS, said: ”As Scotland’s deer numbers rise and expand their range, it’s really important that those driving on rural roads at night are extra vigilant.
“We are aware that deer accidents are more likely to happen on rural roads adjacent to forests and other wild habitats but they are becoming more common on major roads around towns and cities.
"As we enter the Christmas season, we’ve pulled together advice for motorists. Hitting a large animal is distressing at best and apart from damage to vehicles and potential injury to drivers and passengers, no-one wants to leave a wild animal hurt and in enduring pain.”
Most recorded road accidents involving deer occur in the Highland, Aberdeenshire, Central Belt, and Fife regions, but areas in west central Scotland, including North and South Lanarkshire, have also seen significant increases, FLS said.
