Motorists are being urged to abide by Highway Code rules following a devastating accident, as experts tell drivers to watch their speeds.
Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital, based in Haddenham, near Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire, have urged motorists to "slow down and stay alert" after a young deer was killed on a road.
The hospital received reports that traffic was being obstructed by an injured deer who had been hit by a car, adding that it was a "difficult rescue on a busy road".
The deer was rushed to the Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital, but the injuries were "far too severe". In a social media post, the team said it was a "tragically common sight".
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|Motorists are encouraged to follow the Highway Code guidance when travelling near animals
The post noted that instances like this were common in the summer time as young deer disperse, and wildlife becomes more active near roads.
It added: "These calls never get easier for our team, who do everything they can to give animals a second chance.
"Please, if you’re driving near woodlands or open countryside, slow down and stay alert. A moment's caution can prevent a devastating collision."
Shocking data from the RSPCA reports that approximately 75,000 deer are involved in vehicle collisions annually, with 10,000 killed instantly.
TIGGYWINKLES WILDLIFE HOSPITAL
|The deer was rushed to hospital but died of its injuries
Any accidents involving deer can also have catastrophic consequences for motorists, with between 10 and 20 fatalities taking place each year, in addition to around 450 serious injuries.
Similar astonishing research from the British Deer Society reveals that a deer is hit by a car every seven minutes in England alone.
Motorists are encouraged to be particularly vigilant during summer and autumn months, as well as in locations that are known for deer crossings.
The Highway Code instructs drivers to drive slowly when passing animals, giving them plenty of room and being ready to stop.
Rule 214 adds that motorists should not scare animals by sounding the horn, revving the engine or accelerating rapidly one they have been passed.
It continues: "Look out for animals being led, driven or ridden on the road and take extra care. Keep your speed down at bends and on narrow country roads.
"If a road is blocked by a herd of animals, stop and switch off your engine until they have left the road. Watch out for animals on unfenced roads."
Data from the British Deer Society also shows that vehicle damage from motorists hitting deer costs at least £17million per year.
TIGGYWINKLES WILDLIFE HOSPITAL
|The Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital team called on drivers to slow down
James Luckhurst, head of road safety at GEM Motoring Assist, called on drivers to be "extra observant" when driving in areas where deer are known to be.
The problem could only worsen in the coming months as the days get shorter and motorists have to travel more frequently in the dark.
The expert said: "If a collision with the animal appears inevitable, then the safest option is to hit it while maintaining full control of your car.
"The alternative of swerving towards oncoming traffic or into a verge or hedge could be a lot worse."