Deer vs. Car Statistics

The National Highway Safety Administration (NHSA) recently conducted a study concerning the increasing dangers from deer-related vehicle accidents. Deer-related car accidents have consistently risen over the years due to increasing deer populations and destruction of their habitat.

• There are approximately 1.5 million deer-related car accidents annually
• The cost of these accidents results in over $1 billion dollars in vehicle damage
• There are around 175-200 fatalities every year and 10,000 injuries
• The majority of these accidents occur between October and December, but can happen year round

Preventing Deer and Car Collisions

Deer can appear suddenly and without warning, but knowing how to react and where and when they are most likely to strike can greatly reduce your chances of being involved in an accident.

Don’t Swerve

The leading cause of accidents, injuries, and deaths from deer-related accidents is when vehicles swerve in an attempt to avoid hitting a deer. Swerving can result in vehicles moving into oncoming traffic, crashing into trees and other objects, or evening rolling over. While it may be against a driver’s first instinct, the safest thing to do is slow down as much as possible, blow your horn (one long blast to frighten the deer away) and let your vehicle strike the deer. Instincts tell us to avoid an obstruction in the road, but if you can train yourself to not swerve to avoid deer in the road you will keep yourself, your passengers, and other drivers much safer.

Deer Crossing Signs are There for a Reason

Pay attention to posted deer crossing signs. These signs are placed in areas known for high deer traffic. It is important to note that even if there is no posted deer crossing sign it is important to remain vigilant as deer may appear anywhere.

Know How Deer Travel

While deer can be active any time of the day, the majority of deer-related car accidents occur starting at dusk and during the evening. It is important to pay special attention during 6 and 9 P.M.

It is also important to always be aware that deer mostly move in packs, and that when you spot one deer, it is likely that there are more deer nearby.

Use High Beams When Possible

High beams should be used at night as much as possible to spot deer in the road ahead or deer that may be lurking along the side of the road. Make sure to use your high beams only when no other oncoming traffic is visible and make sure to turn them off if a vehicle approaches.

If your vehicle strikes a deer, do not touch the animal.  A frightened and wounded deer can hurt you or further injure itself.  The best practice is to get your car off of the road and call the police. 

In the event a deer damages your car contact your insurance agent or agency to report the incident.