Fall is in the air and it’s not just the smell of pumpkin spice. As the air cools and the leaves turn, there seems to be more wildlife crossing and hanging out on the roads. This morning I was lucky enough to avoid two raccoons and a couple deer on my way in and I only live 15 minutes away. I am curious to know, is it just me noticing this and what can be done, besides driving with a snow plow on year round, to protect my vehicle? Do deer whistles work for instance? Science has not given us a solid answer to that question.

So what can drivers do to prevent collisions with wildlife? The experts suggest you SLOW DOWN and offer six things you can do to help you and the critters stay safe.

Drive safely: Give wildlife a “brake”

Now we do need to consider the what if, devil’s advocate. If a collision with an animal is unavoidable, there is a correct way for that to happen.

How to properly hit wildlife with your car — to save your life

Now lastly, let’s talk about what is on your vehicle. I always joked that I wanted to put the family symbols in the back window of my vehicle with cows and pets included, but what are decorations like that on a vehicle really saying. This picture from police in the United States explains well what information can be unknowingly displayed on your vehicle.