HENDERSON, Ky. -- Autumn is a time for cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors.
But, did you know, October through December is the peak season for deer-related crashes?
Kentucky State Police (KSP) cautions drivers to be aware of the increased dangers deer can create on Kentucky roads.
“It’s essential for drivers to stay vigilant during the fall season when driving on Kentucky roadways,� says Trooper Corey King. “Often deer roam in groups, so if a motorist sees one cross the road, they should immediately slow down in anticipation of additional deer.�
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are about one million car crashes with deer each year that kill 200 Americans, cause more than 10,000 personal injuries and result in $1 billion in vehicle damage.
In 2023, there were 3,285 deer-related crashes in Kentucky resulting in 202 injuries and three fatalities.
The latest data we found on deer-related crashes in Illinois was from 2022.
That year, there were 14,524 crashes involving deer, 13,892 resulted in damage to property or vehicles, while 629 caused injuries. Four of the crashes resulted in fatalities.
Missouri drivers have a 1-in-80 chance of hitting an animal on a roadway. ranks Missouri 14th nationally for most deer-related crashes.
KSP provides these reminders for drivers:
- Be Aware: Be on the lookout for deer crossing signs throughout the state.
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed while traveling through an area prone to deer.
- Never Veer From Deer: Sudden sharp turns could place a driver in the path of oncoming traffic or cause your vehicle to strike a fixed object, such as a tree or utility pole.
- Herd Awareness: Deer travel in groups. Motorists who see a deer cross the road, should immediately anticipate that additional deer could enter the roadway.
- Timing Is Everything: Deer are most active at dusk and dawn, when your vision is most compromised. Additionally, deer are on the move during mating season (between October and January).
- Buckle Up: If a collision is unavoidable, hitting the deer is often safer than swerving. Wearing a seatbelt is your best defense during a crash and is also the law.
