Drivers should be aware of deer this fall

PERRY COUNTY – Fall is peak season for deer-related vehicle accidents and motorists should remember to drive defensively, according to the state Department of Natural Resources.

“Nearly 50 percent of all vehicle accidents involving white-tailed deer occur between October and December, with November by far the worst month,” said Chad Stewart, deer research biologist for the DNR.

The main reason for deer collisions is the seasonal increase in deer activity.

With their breeding season approaching, deer become more active in the fall. This activity often leads them to encounter roads more frequently, increasing the opportunity for a collision.

Other factors contributing to accident frequency are deer density, vehicle density, surrounding habitat, speed limits and time of day.

Indiana Crash Facts, an annual report compiled by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, Center for Criminal Justice Research and the Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Public and Environmental Affairs, reported 15,205 deer-related collisions in 2011.

That’s a 4.9 percent decrease from 2010.

“With the number of deer and the number of vehicles out there, deer-vehicle accidents will happen,” Stewart said. “The best thing drivers can do is to take safety measures to keep them to a minimum.”

Knowing the following information and practicing defensive driving will help reduce your chances of becoming a deer-vehicle collision statistic:

• Fall is the most common season to strike a deer.
• Deer are most active between sunset and sunrise.
• Deer often travel in groups, so if you see one, another is likely nearby.
• Be especially careful in areas where you have seen deer before.
• Use high beams when there is no opposing traffic; scan for deer’s illuminated eyes or dark silhouettes along the side of the road.
• If you see a deer, slow your speed drastically, even if it is far away.
• Exercise extreme caution along woodlot edges, at hills or blind turns.
• Never swerve to avoid hitting a deer; most serious crashes occur when drivers try to miss a deer but hit something else.

Drivers should pay attention to traffic signs warning of deer crossings and may want to steer clear of gimmicks.

“Deer crossing signs have proved effective, but motorists tend to get acclimated to such signs, and their efficiency can be reduced over time,” Stewart said. “Fancy whistles or reflectors have not proven to be effective deterrents.”

Stewart said that even when practicing safe driving, sometimes hitting a deer is inevitable. Caution is also the best approach after the fact.

“If you hit a deer, remain calm,” he said. “Do not approach the deer unless you are sure it has expired. Despite their gentle nature, their hooves are sharp and powerful, and can be extremely dangerous.”

Stewart said that, like cars and people, deer can be found anywhere, so drivers should be on the lookout.

“Whether you’re driving through the Hoosier National Forest, your developed neighborhood or inside the city limits of Indianapolis, keep your eye out,” he said. “Though a deer-vehicle accident can occur at any time of the day during any season, your chances of striking a deer are greatest at low light conditions between October and December.

“Take additional caution during these times, lower your speed, and be alert.”