Vehicle-deer Crashes Rise in October Thru December.

Last year in Kansas, over 9-thousand traffic crashes were deer related, with two people killed and 305 people injured.
Most vehicle-deer crashes occur between October and December around dawn and dusk.  The deer rutting season and other factors during this time appear to increase the movement of the deer and the number of deer on the roadway.  Also, if one deer is seen, it’s likely more are nearby.

Law enforcement agencies are encouraging motorist to pay special attention while driving in the hopes of spotting deer early to avoid a collision.  Surprisingly, many experts encourage drivers to hit a deer versus swerving in attempt to avoid the collision.  They cite cases where drivers and vehicles received more damage due to swerving and losing control than they would have if they had struck the deer. 

If a motorist is involved in a deer-vehicle accident do not approach the animal, as it could be dangerous.   Contact law enforcement personnel who will help remove the animal from the roadway.