Most deer-vehicle crashes statewide occur from September through January, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
The combination of fewer daylight hours with the increased movement of deer due to mating season and hunting season increases the risk of collisions between deer and vehicles.
Though most people would expect these crashes to be more likely in rural areas, motorists in urban areas also need to watch out for these dangerous — and sometimes deadly — accidents involving deer.
Use these driving tips to help avoid collisions with deer:
- See the signs: Deer-crossing signs are posted in high-risk areas. Drive with caution, especially in the posted areas.
- Deer often run together: If one deer is near or crossing the road, expect that others may follow.
- Danger from dusk to dawn: Watch for deer especially at dawn and after sunset. About 20 percent of these crashes occur in early morning, while more than half occur between 5 p.m. and midnight.
- Safety begins behind the wheel: Always wear safety belts and drive at safe, sensible speeds for road conditions.
- Never swerve to avoid a deer in the road. Swerving can confuse the deer on where to run. Swerving also can cause a head-on collision with oncoming vehicles, take the vehicle off the roadway into a tree or a ditch and increase the chances of serious injuries.
