MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Deer aren't always the harmless, innocent creatures you see walking through the park. While the road is a place to always be alert, nighttime in the fall is especially dangerous for deer in your path.

According to the Michigan State Police there are an average of two million deer in the state, and deer are responsible for about 50,000 crashes every year. You can never know when a deer will be blocking your path, but the State Police has tips on how to best protect your car and yourself on the road.

First, staying alert, sober, and aware of your surrounding is a must. If you feel it's too dangerous to see clearly on the road because of fatigue or the elements, don't drive.

Be alert for deer at all times of the year, but stay especially watchful in spring and fall seasons, where they are most active.

Deer signs on the road are there for a reason. Areas near woods can harbor the animals, and signs on the road usually indicate a problem with deer in the past. Checking your surrounding for signs and other markers indicating obstructions can be beneficial.

Nobody wants to hit a deer. But if the situation is unavoidable, sometimes striking a deer in the road is the safer option. Swerving on a two lane road and hitting another car or person is usually how the most serious crashes occur. If you can't stop in time from hitting the deer, don't slow down and don't swerve on the road, endangering other people.

Crashes occur when the driver isn't expecting anything wrong. Especially at night, stay aware of where you are and what could be out there. Even if it is a harmless, curious deer.