Woman injured after swerving to avoid deer, striking tree

CASS COUNTY, Mich. -- A 33-year-old woman was injured after attempting to avoid hitting a deer, striking a tree after leaving the roadway Sunday morning.

Cass County deputies were called to a personal injury accident Dec. 23 on M 60 west of Burn Lynd Street in Howard Township at approximately 5:20 a.m.

Deputies say Joyce A. Kocher, 33, of Vandalia, Michigan was traveling west of Burn Lynd Street on M 60 when she ran off the roadway in an attempt to avoid hitting a deer.

After leaving the roadway, Kocher struck a tree, resulting in injuries.

Kocher was taken to South Bend Memorial for injuries sustained via SMCAS Ambulance.

According to officials, alcohol is not believed to be a factor in the accident and seat belts were worn. 

Howard Fire Department, Cass County deputies and SMCAS Ambulance assisted at the scene.