Deer movement and activity has increased because of their breeding season, and it is important for drivers to be especially vigilant during the fall months, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife. The frequency of deer-vehicle collisions in Ohio typically rises in October, November, and December.

White-tailed deer are more active from late October through December during the fall breeding season. The breeding season, known as the rut, may cause deer to unexpectedly dart into roadways with little caution. Additionally, deer may move around more frequently, across wider areas, and at all hours of the day at this time of year. All these factors increase the risk of deer-vehicle collisions.

The below tips may help reduce the risk of a collision:

• Keep your focus on the roadway to provide as much time as possible to spot a deer.
• Slow down without swerving out of your lane.
• If you do spot a deer, keep in mind they often travel in groups and seeing one deer on the roadway may indicate others are nearby.
• Use your high beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic to make spotting deer alongside the road easier. Watch for reflections from a deer’s eyes.
• Be extra cautious while driving at dawn and dusk.
• Watch for deer where the road intersects fencerows, riparian corridors, and forested habitats.

If you do hit a deer, activate your vehicle’s hazard lights and move the vehicle out of the roadway, if possible. Report the collision to the police and wait for help to arrive. Contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible to report vehicle damage.

Call 1-800-WILDLIFE (1-800-945-3543) with wildlife-related questions. Keep up with the Division of Wildlife on Facebook and Instagram for instant news stories, outdoor recreation ideas, local wildlife information, and so much more. Visit wildohio.gov to find locations to hunt, fish, trap, and view wildlife.

The mission of the Division of Wildlife is to conserve and improve fish and wildlife resources and their habitats for sustainable use and appreciation by all. Visit wildohio.gov to find out more.

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ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at?ohiodnr.gov.