You need to be on the lookout for deer along the highways. That's the message from the New York State Thruway Authority.

"Motorists are reminded to be watchful for deer along the Thruway, specifically this time of year. The safety of motorists is the Thruway Authority's top priority," said Thruway Authority Executive Director Michael R. Fleischer. "Vehicle-deer accidents can cause serious injury, and it is very important that motorists remain aware of their surroundings and be on the look-out for deer along the highways."

You're encouraged not to swerve to avoid deer, since the most serious accidents happen when drivers swerve at highway speed and slam into other vehicles or trees. Make sure you are on the lookout wherever there are deer crossing signs posted on the Thruway.

"Vehicle-deer collision rates tend to peak seasonally associated with increases in deer movement behavior," said DEC Commissioner Joe Martens. "There can often be a slight increase in vehicle-deer collisions in May and June as yearling deer disperse from their natal range, therefore, we encourage all New Yorkers to stay alert and follow the proven precautions that will help protect their safety."

The Thruway Authority has these tips for drivers:

- Use extreme caution at dawn and dusk, when deer are most active.
- Be more aware of deer during May/June and October/November.
- Scan the shoulders of the roadside for deer eyes reflecting light.
- Do not rely on high beams or honking your horn to warn deer.
- Slow down when approaching deer standing at the roadside; they may run into oncoming traffic.
- Deer often travel in groups. Where there's one, there may be more.
- Always buckle your seat belts. Ejection from a vehicle is the main reason that fatalities occur in a collision.
- If a collision is unavoidable, hold onto the steering wheel; do not swerve to avoid hitting the deer. Bring vehicle to a complete stop. The most serious vehicle-deer accidents occur when drivers swerve at high speeds to elude a deer and then hit another vehicle, a tree, or roll over.
- Do not attempt to approach or touch the deer.
- Stay awake, alert, and sober.

If you do get into an accident with a deer, try to get your car as far off the highway as possible and park on the right shoulder, then activate your hazard flashes and stay with your car until help arrives.

Click here to read more safety tips.