Dart to the arrival of prime deer-collision season. This is the time of year when the chances of a buck or doe bounding across the road in front of you is at its highest. The consequences of such encounters can be expensive and deadly. In 2012, according to the NCDOT, there were more than 20,000 animal-related crashes, the majority involving deer, with 20 fatalities and nearly 3,500 injuries. Property damage totaled $144 million.
With deer more active during hunting and mating season, October and November are especially hazardous months. State Farm offers these tips that can help motorists avoid deer mayhem:
n Like political partisans, deer generally travel in herds — if you see one, there is a strong possibility others are nearby.
n Be aware of posted deer-crossing signs, which designate active deer areas.
n Remember that deer are most active between 6 and 9 p.m.
n Use high-beam headlamps as much as possible at night to illuminate the areas from which deer will enter roadways.
Laurels to using innovative strategies to promote anti-bullying messages. A case in point is the anti-bullying emblem incorporated into the corn maze at Patterson Farm. The maze gives the message a very visible presence that will be on view for several weeks, drawing youngsters and adults alike to the popular attraction off Caldwell Road in western Rowan County.
Dart to scammers trying to take advantage of confusion about the Affordable Care Act. Even before the sign-up period began, consumer-protection agencies were getting complaints from people who had been solicited by scammers. While these scams take a variety of forms, most of them seek unauthorized access to your personal information. This can include unwanted phone calls from people claiming to be from government agencies and asking for a Social Security or bank account number or other data. Never provide personal information to unknown callers or someone who shows up uninvited at your door. Scammers also may pose as phony “navigators” offering to help assist consumers in enrolling. If someone requests payments to help you sign up for insurance, or presses you for sensitive personal information, hang up the phone, close the door or delete that text or email. For information about the new health insurance marketplaces, visit www.healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596.