As hunting season for bear and deer approach and breeding of these animals make them less cautious, be on the lookout for deer on the run. Try to be extra cautious while driving to prevent motor vehicle accidents and damage to vehicles. New York State estimates 65,000 deer are hit by cars annually with the majority between October to December. That’s one every 8 minutes! With a statewide deer population of approximately 900,000, there are an estimated 60,000 to 70,000 deer-vehicle collisions that occur throughout New York State each year.

New York State Dept.of Transportation recommends:

• Use caution when driving at dawn or dusk and scan roads and roadsides ahead;
• Reduce your speed at night and use high beams when possible;
• Be sure all vehicle occupants wear seat belts and children are properly restrained in child safety seats;
• Slow down when approaching deer or moose standing near the roadside, as they may suddenly bolt into the road;
• Deer and moose often travel in pairs or groups, so if deer or moose are spotted crossing the road, slow down and be alert that others may follow;
• Briefly use flashers or a headlight signal to warn approaching drivers when deer or moose are spotted in or near the highway;
• Be especially alert and use caution when traveling through frequent deer or moose crossing areas, which are usually marked with “leaping stag” or moose signs;
• Do not rely on devices, such as deer whistles, extra lights or reflectors, to deter deer. Research has shown that your best defense is your own responsible behavior;
• Motorcyclists should be especially alert for deer as motorcycle-deer collisions have a higher fatality rate; and
• If a deer does run in front of your vehicle, brake firmly but do not swerve. Swerving can cause a vehicle-vehicle collision or cause the vehicle to strike a pedestrian or potentially deadly fixed object, such as a tree or utility pole.

For more information about what to do if a deer-vehicle accident occurs, visit www.dot.ny.gov and www.deercrash.com .

Travelers can assist NYSDOT with monitoring trends in moose travel patterns by reporting moose sightings at NYSDOT’s, or by sending an e-mail to [email protected].