As the weather turns colder, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to be on the lookout for deer on the roadways that may lead to traffic crashes. Drivers are specifically cautioned to be alert for deer especially at dawn and after sunset.
During the months of October through December, the chances of seeing deer on or near our roads increase as the deer become more active and enter the peak of their breeding season. In 2006, there were 28,240 reported deer-vehicle crashes in Ohio, with the most frequency by month coming in October (3,915), November (6,418), and December (3,858).
The top 10 counties with the highest number of reported deer-vehicle collisions in 2006 were Hamilton (717), Richland (686), Summit (629), Knox (602), Muskingum (560), Delaware (515), Tuscarawas (506), Franklin (505), Lorain (505), Butler (504). Those counties reporting the five fewest such collisions were Monroe (31), followed by Hocking (63), Harrison (77), Vinton (79), and Carroll (88).
For additional deer-related crash statistics, facts, and a state map of deer crash totals, I encourage readers to visit the Patrol’s Web site, www.statepatrol.ohio.gov.
Please keep these tips in mind as you travel around the state this fall:
• If you see a deer in the road, expect more deer to be nearby. Deer commonly
travel in groups, so the probability is high that other deer will be in front
of or behind the one you’ve seen. Slow down and be alert;
• 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 always unpredictable. They often dart out into traffic
on busy highways in metropolitan areas; and
• Report any deer-vehicle collisions to a local law enforcement agency, such
as your local Patrol post.
In the event of a deer crash, get the vehicle as far off the road as possible, and if a cell phone is available, dial 1-877-7-PATROL for assistance. The call will be directed to the nearest Patrol post so a state trooper can come provide whatever help is needed as soon as possible.
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