Dash cam video shared by Michigan State Police on Twitter Saturday night shows a sergeant from the Houghton Lake post narrowly missing a collision with a group of deer marching single file across a roadway.
Lt. Travis House said collisions with wild animals are "very common" in Michigan.
Most people who have been on the roadways at dawn or dusk have probably had a similar encounter, House said.
"If someone actually sees animals, wild or domestic, they have to take proper precautions," he said.
House shared the following safety tips:
- Slow down
- Don't just focus on the animals you see, there may be others nearby
- Don't swerve, often times that will cause a worse crash
- Begin controlled breaking
House said crashes often end up more serious when a driver swerves to avoid an animal and leaves the roadway or collides with other vehicles. Generally, striking a deer will only cause minor damage to the car, he said.
The state has published several brochures promoting the "Don't Veer for Deer!" traffic safety campaign.
"Watch for deer all year," the state suggests. "Buckle up, stay alert, slow down."
Contact Aleanna Siacon at ASiacon@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter: @AleannaSiacon.