The Spring Garden Fire Department was dispatched to what was described as a vehicle fire at around 10:30 Monday morning.

In actuality, a truck had hit a deer on Highway 278 near County Road 15 and the tail pipe of the vehicle started a small grass fire by the roadside following the impact.  It appears no one was hurt in the mishap.

According to reports, drivers in the United States have a 1 in 116 chance of hitting a deer or other animal.  Alabama is considered a high risk state for animal collisions, with drivers in Alabama having a 1 in 90 chance of colliding with an animal on the road.  

67% of the more than 1.96 million animal collisions between July 1st 2019 and June 30th of this year involved deer; West Virginia has the greatest likelihood of animal collisions with a 1 in 37 chance of a driver hitting a deer or other animal.

Montana, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, Mississippi, Minnesota and Wyoming were the other states in the top 10.

Some common sense tips to help avoid deer collision include:

• Slow down, particularly at dusk and dawn.
• If you see one deer, be prepared for more deer to cross the road.
• Pay attention to deer crossing signs.
• Always buckle up — every trip, every time.
• Use your high beams to see farther, except when there is oncoming traffic.
• Brake if you can, but avoid swerving, which can result in a more severe crash.
• Remain focused on the road. Scan for potential dangers, including animals.
• Avoid distractions. Devices or eating might cause you to miss seeing an animal.
• Do not rely on products such as deer whistles. They are not proven effective.
• If riding a motorcycle, always wear protective gear. Keep focused on the road ahead.