Q. I drive to work on the largely rural two-lane Route 45 from Kankakee to the western suburbs and occasionally see deer crossing the road. Suggestions for avoiding them? --E.H., Kankakee

A. You might see more than the usual number of deer because their mating season goes from now through December, increasing deer movement. The Insurance Information Institute (III) estimates there are more than 1.6 million deer-vehicle collisions annually, often severely damaging people and vehicles. The III says states with the highest number of accidents involving deer from 2005 to 2008 included Illinois. First, drive slower and use seat belts. Be especially alert from sunset to midnight and hours shortly before or after sunrise -- highest risk times for deer-vehicle collisions. Deer often move in groups -- if you see one, there likely are more in the vicinity. They're unpredictable, especially when faced with glaring headlights, blowing horns and fast-moving vehicles and often dart into traffic. Use high beams at night, when there's no oncoming traffic, because that better illuminates eyes of deer near the road. If you see one, brake firmly and stay in your lane to avoid hitting another vehicle or losing control of your vehicle. Finally, devices such as deer whistles, deer fences and reflectors to deter deer haven't been proven effective, the III says.

Q. A friend wants to sell his equipment-loaded 2005 Nissan Maxima with 8,000 miles to me for $16,700. It even has original-equipment 18-inch chrome wheels. He's building a house and thus wants to sell the car. It's been garaged and is perfect, inside and out. However, the warranty just expired. Your thoughts? --R.H., Chicago area.

A. It's very helpful that you know the owner and history of this Maxima, an above-average model. It's also a plus that it has below-average mileage, which is usually 12,000-15,000 a year. The average retail value of the base 2005 Maxima SE with typical mileage is $17,300. It's $19,000 for the higher-line SL version, which has such things as leather upholstery and heated front seats. So the price is right. If you like it, buy it without a second thought, unless its owner drove it like a hot rod. The warranty is really a non-issue.

Q. I'd like a new car but am holding off buying one because I read that it's hard to get a loan for one. My credit is pretty good. Advice? --C.W., Western Springs.

A. It seems like a good time for you to make a move. You may not realize that auto dealers are probably more desperate to sell a vehicle than you sound as if you are to buy one! With a much lower number of customers and dealer lots filled with inventory, you most likely can get a very good deal with decent credit. For instance, General Motors is offering zero percent financing and other incentives on many models and even Toyota has announced a nationwide zero percent financing incentive on many of its popular models.

Car question? Send it to Dan Jedlicka, Chicago Sun-Times, 350 N. Orleans, Chicago 60654, or e-mail djedlicka@ suntimes.com. Include name and hometown.