The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) is issuing the following warning to motorists: Be extremely cautious the next several weeks. Here’s why:

“Deer will be abundant and their movement unpredictable along Wisconsin roadways in coming weeks.”

The risk for car-deer crashes increases this time of year. During fall, deer on the prowl to mate are active and while on the move often find their way in the path of vehicles. October is a bad month for deer collisions and so is November. The most commonly struck objects in Wisconsin crashes are, in this order, another vehicle, a fixed object, and deer.

As a motorcycle enthusiast, I especially want to emphasize this finding: Motorcycles were involved in 10 of the 14 fatal deer-vehicle crashes in Wisconsin during 2007.

Here is a press release from the DOT including advice about how to prevent car-deer crashes.

Over the next several days, thousands of motorcyclists will be in our area celebrating the 105^th anniversary of Harley-Davidson.  Everyone wants the most enjoyable festivities, and even if you don’t ride a motorcycle, you can do your part to make the celebration safe. Here are tips from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation for automobile and truck drivers to be aware of around motorcyclists:

There are far fewer motorcycles on the road than cars and trucks. Motorists often don’t recognize motorcycles. Look for them, especially when checking traffic at intersections.

Judging a motorcycle’s speed and how close it is can be difficult because of the motorcycle’s size. It is always best when checking traffic to assume a motorcycle is closer than it looks.

The small size can make it appear that a motorcycle is moving faster than it really is. Do not assume all motorcyclists are speed merchants.

Motorcycles can hide in a motorist’s blind spot or be blocked by objects or backgrounds like bushes, fences, and bridges. Thoroughly check traffic when changing lanes or turning at intersections.

At times, motorcyclists will slow down by downshifting or rolling off the throttle. When they do, their brake lights are not activated. Motorists need to apply more following distance around motorcyclists.

Be aware that turn signals on a motorcycle are generally not self-canceling. Motorcyclists at times forget to turn their signals off after making a turn or lane change.

Motorcyclists will change position in a lane for various reasons, including the ability to seen more easily and to minimize the effects of road debris, passing vehicles, and the wind. They are not adjusting their lane position to show off, be reckless, or share their lane with you.

Despite the great maneuverability of a motorcycle, don’t expect a motorcyclist to always be able to dodge out of the way.

Allow more stopping distance behind a motorcyclist, especially on slippery pavement.

When you see a motorcycle in motion, regard it as a person, not a motorcycle.