Friday Harbor man injured when motorcycle strikes deer on Turn Point Road

A Friday Harbor man was medflighted off-island for treatment of a possible head injury and severe cuts on his face after his motorcycle collided with a deer on Turn Point Road just before Black Road, Wednesday about 5:30 p.m.

A Friday Harbor man was medflighted off-island for treatment of a possible head injury and severe cuts on his face after his motorcycle collided with a deer on Turn Point Road just before Black Road, Wednesday about 5:30 p.m.

Sheriff Bill Cumming said Gary Pugh was riding away from town when the collision occurred. It is believed that he went over the handlebars of his motorcycle, a Triumph. The motorcycle traveled about 25-35 feet before coming to a stop, Cumming said.

Pugh was wearing a helmet when the collision occurred. Cumming said Pugh exhibited some confusion, a common occurrence with head injuries. Cumming said he did not know how fast Pugh was traveling at the time of the collision.

“There is a large population of deer on the island and they pose a significant risk when crossing the road,” Cumming said. “Your vehicle speed should always reflect that.”

His advice to motorists: Slow down so you can stop in the event wildlife crosses the road in front of you.