Deer collisions are a bigger concern than most drivers realize. According to recent insurance industry data, over 1.5 million deer-related crashes happen in the U.S. every year, causing thousands of injuries and millions of dollars in damages. In Pennsylvania alone, your chances of hitting a deer are 1 in 61! With deer populations thriving in both rural and suburban areas, it’s more important than ever to know how to reduce your risk.
Whether you’re driving home from work, taking a weekend trip, or just running errands near wooded areas, these tips will help you stay safe on the road.
When Deer Are Most Active
Deer aren’t just a fall hazard anymore; they’re active year-round, but risk peaks during certain times.
- Dawn and dusk remain the most dangerous hours because deer are moving to and from feeding grounds when visibility is low.
- October through February is high season. Deer are most active during the fall mating season, and winter pushes them into new areas in search of food.
- Expect groups. If one deer crosses, slow down immediately; there are usually more following right behind.
How to Drive Defensively Around Deer
Even the most experienced driver can be surprised by a sudden leap into the road, but practicing defensive driving can make all the difference.
- Slow down in deer-prone zones. If you see deer crossing signs or you’re driving near fields or wooded edges, ease off the gas.
- Stay alert and scan. Keep your eyes moving and watch the sides of the road for movement.
- Use high beams wisely. When there’s no oncoming traffic, high beams can help you catch the reflection of deer eyes earlier.
- Don’t swerve. It’s natural to want to jerk the wheel, but swerving can send you into another vehicle, a tree, or a ditch. Brake firmly and stay in your lane.
- Tap your horn. A long honk can scare deer into backing away from the road.
Modern Tools That Can Help
Technology is making it easier for drivers to avoid collisions:
- Collision-avoidance systems in newer vehicles can automatically brake if an animal is detected.
- Thermal or night-vision systems (in some vehicles or as aftermarket add-ons) can spot animals even before your headlights do.
- Wildlife-collision maps and apps now highlight high-risk roads so you can be extra alert in trouble zones.
If You Hit a Deer
Even with the best precautions, accidents happen. If you hit a deer:
- Pull over safely and turn on your hazard lights.
- Stay in your vehicle. Injured deer can thrash and cause harm.
- Call local authorities. They’ll know how to handle the animal and document the crash.
- Take photos for your insurance company.
- Get your car inspected. Even if the damage looks minor, deer collisions can affect your suspension, frame, or cooling systems.
Keeping You Safe After a Collision
At Tommy’s Automotive, we’ve seen our share of deer-related repair jobs, from dented fenders to major front-end damage. If you find yourself in this situation, our team is here to get your car back on the road quickly and safely.
Stay alert, stay prepared, and remember: while you can’t control wildlife, you can control how you react behind the wheel.