PLAINS – A motorcycle hit a deer on Highway 200 Friday afternoon at approximately 1 p.m. The motorcyclist was headed towards Plains when he encountered the deer.

Assistant Chief James Russell of Plains-Paradise Rural Fire Department said the driver was beyond lucky.

“He skid off the road and he’s not too banged up,” said Russell. “Anytime there is something with a motorcycle, you’re not sure what to expect but this turned out to be alright.”

Sheriff’s Deputy Jerry Johnson said the deer got stuck on the forks of the bike and “went for quite a ride.”

“The driver came off back there but the bike and the deer kept going. That guy is lucky, very lucky,” said Johnson.

The man involved was not transported to the hospital; instead he was taken into town where his wife planned to meet him.

Although injured, the injuries were minor – with the man sustaining a cut to the nose. He walked away from the accident almost unscathed.

Personnel on scene said the full-face helmet the man was wearing saved his life.

Responders from Plains Ambulance, Plains-Paradise Rural Fire Department, Montana Highway Patrol and Sanders County Sheriff’s Office were on scene.