West Virginia Lawmakers Want Deer Crash Study

January 13, 2009

Collisions involving motor vehicles and deer are becoming enough of a menace in West Virginia that the Legislature is getting involved.

Lawmakers decided they want an in-depth study of the problem and possible remedies done in this year’s legislative session, which starts next month.

Last year, State Farm Insurance said vehicles in West Virginia have a one in 45 chance of colliding with deer — the highest rate in the nation and a spot the state also occupied the previous year.

Paul Johansen with the state Division of Natural Resources says the problem doesn’t have any obvious solutions.

Signs flashing warnings to drivers have shown mixed results, and other measures — like whistles mounted on automobile hoods — don’t work.

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Information from: The Register-Herald,
http://www.register-herald.com