Kristen's story
I was driving through known deer country in the fall. The bucks were in heavy rut and common to see crossing the highways. As I was coming into the city on a two lane highway with very steep ditches, I encountered a big one. I was traveling 55 mph when he bolted up the side of the ditch to the shoulder. I didn't have a chance to see him until he came up over the edge. He was so close to the car that he actually reared up like a horse in the circus! The thought I actually had was when he comes down, he is going to come through the convertible top on us! But, to my surprise and relief that did not happen. I applied the brakes completely and the light weight of the Smartfortwo allowed the vehicle to slow immediately, like nothing I have ever driven. At the same moment the 10 point buck's front feet hit the ground just in front of my passenger side and he kept running. So, as he made his decision to keep going, I swerved a tight right around the back end of him as he proceeded past the driver's side. I was amazed at the tight steering and reaction of our new Smartfortwo. I never slid or felt off balance like I would roll it. I didn't even worry about the impending steep ditch that was my newest obstacle. I pulled a hard left and continued on down the highway. I am sure that the two cars behind me were impressed with the handling of that "cute little car". I am sure as they watched all the action they were sure to see a deer/car accident to be able to tell their friends about. Instead, they went home with a story about how there must've been a car test driver behind the wheel! And they must have magic dust to stop so quick and avoid a sure accident. Any normal car would've had to hit the deer because the momentum of the force of the weight of the car would have pushed them into the danger zone. The Smartfortwo really impressed others, but especially me. I drive it with my 8 year old knowing that it can react and protect us in new and better ways. I will continue to drive with confidence and sing the accolades of the wonderful engineering that makes the car an absolute joy to drive!