Swerved (8)
'swerved' is the definition.
('veer' can be a synonym of 'swerve')
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for veered that I've seen before include "Took evasive action" , "once let out at sea" , "Changed direction abruptly" , "Changed direction or course, as wind may" , "Tacked suddenly" .)
(Other definitions for deviated that I've seen before include "Turned aside" , "Turned away from an expected course" , "Diverged from expected course" .)