Drivers Should Be Cautious of Deer

Now that the days are shorter the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries wants drivers to be extra cautious while commuting in the dark. 

When Daylight Saving Time ends it increases the likelihood of car-deer accidents. Deer are most active during the fall, when it is breeding season, than any other time of year. Most car-deer accidents happen in October, November and December. Though most vehicle-deer collisions aren't fatal, they can cause a lot of damage to people and property. 

Deer populations are managed by the Board of Game and Inland Fisheries  with regulated hunting activities. Officials estimate the deer population at this time of year to be about 900,000 and about 200,000 are harvested by hunters each year. 

The VDGIF offers the following tips to avoid hitting deer: 
• When driving at dusk and dawn, go slow and be attentive.
• Deer typically travel in packs. If there is one there are likely others.
• Apply brakes to avoid hitting a deer, but don't swerve out of the lane to miss one. It could result in hitting another vehicle, a tree or other object more serious than a deer.  
• Deer often travel in the same areas and VDOT has installed deer crossing signs where they habitually roam. Use caution when seeing the signs.
• Be cautious and use your own senses. Mounted deer whistles have not shown to be effective.
• If involved in a car-deer collision, report it to a law enforcement officer. Once reported and properly documented, drivers may keep the carcass for their own use.

Note: Information from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.