Obituary – Death – Cause of death News :
Tragedy struck in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, as a motorcyclist lost their life after colliding with a deer for the second time in less than 24 hours. The incident occurred on October 2nd at 5:20 a.m. on State Route 100 near Windy Road in Lowhill Township. The victim, identified as 57-year-old Donald E. Guldin of Lower Macungie Township, was operating a Harley Davidson motorcycle and sustained fatal injuries from the collision.
The Lehigh County Corners Officer determined that the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head. As a result of the investigation, State Route 100 northbound was temporarily closed but has since reopened to traffic. This tragic event follows another fatal collision involving a deer in Washington Township just the day before, highlighting the dangers that deer pose to motorists.
AAA warns drivers in Pennsylvania to be extra cautious during the fall season, as deer-mating season from October to December increases the likelihood of deer darting into the road. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, nearly 1,900 people nationwide lost their lives in crashes involving animals over a 10-year period, with 113 fatalities occurring in Pennsylvania.
In 2023 alone, there have been 4,861 deer-related crashes in Pennsylvania, resulting in 19 fatalities. Jana Tidwell, a spokesman for AAA Mid-Atlantic, emphasizes the importance of adjusting driving behaviors to prevent deer collisions and ensuring proper insurance coverage for potential repairs. Even minor collisions with animals can lead to significant expenses, making it crucial for drivers to be prepared.
Another motorcyclist tragically lost their life in a collision with a deer in Lehigh County, bringing attention once again to the dangers that wildlife can pose to those on the road. The incident, which occurred on a rural road in Lehigh County, has left the community in mourning and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of staying vigilant while riding.
What happened in the crash?
According to reports from NBC10 Philadelphia, the motorcyclist was traveling along a winding road when a deer suddenly darted out in front of them. Despite their best efforts to swerve and avoid the animal, the motorcyclist collided with the deer, resulting in a fatal crash. The impact of the collision threw the rider from their bike, leading to severe injuries that ultimately proved to be fatal.
How common are motorcycle-deer collisions?
While exact statistics on motorcycle-deer collisions can be difficult to come by, they are unfortunately not as rare as one might hope. Deer are known to be unpredictable animals, especially during certain times of the year such as mating season or when they are being chased by predators. This unpredictability can make it challenging for motorcyclists to anticipate their movements and react in time to avoid a collision.
What can riders do to protect themselves?
One of the most important things that motorcyclists can do to protect themselves from collisions with deer is to stay alert and aware of their surroundings at all times. This means scanning the road ahead for any signs of wildlife, especially in areas where deer are known to be prevalent. Additionally, riders should always wear appropriate safety gear, including helmets and protective clothing, to minimize the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
What should drivers do when encountering wildlife on the road?
If you encounter wildlife on the road while driving or riding, it is important to remain calm and try to avoid sudden movements that could startle the animal. Slow down and give the animal plenty of space to safely cross the road, if possible. If a collision is unavoidable, try to brake and steer away from the animal to minimize the impact.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recent tragic incident in Lehigh County serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that wildlife can pose to motorcyclists on the road. By staying alert, wearing appropriate safety gear, and knowing how to react when encountering wildlife, riders can help reduce the risk of collisions and stay safe while enjoying their time on the road. It is important for all road users to be mindful of the potential hazards posed by wildlife and take precautions to protect themselves and others. Stay safe out there.
Sources:
– NBC10 Philadelphia