DRIVERS: WATCH OUT FOR DEER THIS FALL
As fall approaches, a familiar safety hazard returns: deer-vehicle crashes. Most deer-related collisions occur in October, November, and December, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Erie County Engineer Jack Farschman says local crashes reflect this.
In Erie County during 2019, 2020, and 2021 deer were involved in an average of 286 crashes each year. “There is a sharp increase deer-vehicle crashes during October, November, and December,” he said. “Around half of local deer-related collisions happen during these three months.”
Drivers should to remain vigilant, because deer-related collisions happen on nearly every road in Erie County. Drivers must be aware of the seasonal deer hazard and exercise extra caution while driving this time of year.
The Ohio Department of Public Safety, Ohio State Highway Patrol, and ODNR offer precautionary measures and information for motorists:
- Always wear a seat belt as required by state law and drive at a safe, sensible speed for conditions.
- Highest-risk periods are from sunset to midnight followed by the hours shortly before and after sunrise.
- If you see one deer on or near a roadway, expect that others may follow. Slow down and be alert.
- After dark, use high-beams when there is no opposing traffic. The high beams will illuminate the eyes of deer on or near a roadway and provide greater motorist reaction time. But don't rely solely on high-beams or deer whistles to deter such collisions.
- Don't swerve your vehicle to avoid striking a deer. If a collision with a deer seems probable, then hit it while maintaining full control of your vehicle. The alternative could be even worse.
- Stay alert. Deer are often unpredictable, especially when faced with glaring headlights, blowing horns and fast-moving vehicles. They often dart out into traffic on busy highways in metropolitan areas.
- Report any deer-vehicle collisions to a local law enforcement agency (such as the Ohio Highway Patrol or county sheriff) or a state wildlife officer within 24 hours.
- Under Ohio law, the driver of a vehicle that strikes and kills a deer may take possession of it by first obtaining a deer possession receipt. These are available from law enforcement or state wildlife officers, and from local ODNR Division of Wildlife district offices.