WORCESTER, Mass. – There’s a lot to look at on Massachusetts roads as the leaves change this time of year, but AAA is advising drivers to keep an eye out for deer this fall as well.

As the days get shorter and visibility impacts rush-hour commutes, it also becomes peak time for deer-related car crashes.

“Deer are beautiful, majestic animals, but they are big, and they can be especially big, especially the bucks," Mark Schieldrop said. "And hitting one of them is not a fun situation.”

AAA spokesperson Mark Schieldrop said there were more deer crashes in 2023 than any year since 2002.

“Last year, we had 3,800 deer crashes. In 2003, there were only 1,225. So, that's more than double the amount of deer crashes in 20 years," Schieldrop said. "And it seems like every year we're seeing more and more. So, it kind of speaks to that really big deer population that continues to grow.” 

AAA reports most deer crashes happen between October and December, and they’re most common around sunset hours.

MassWildlife said deer live in every town across the state and drivers should stay alert.

“We do see an uptick in deer and moose activity. Moose is kind of tapering down a bit, but deer is going to kind of peak a bit just as they're entering their breeding season, their mating season, or what is often referred to as the rut – just causes a little bit more activity," Meghan Crawford said. "So, this is certainly a time where we advise people who are driving, especially in those early morning hours or later, as to just be really vigilant and look out for wildlife on the road.”

“It's important to think about it before you get on the road," Schieldrop said. "So, when you're driving, you're ready for anything that can happen. And when it does happen, you feel a little more prepared and you can do the right thing.”

And AAA advises if you see one deer, look out for others.

“The other thing to remember is if you see one deer, you're likely to see more," Schieldrop said. "They often travel in groups. So if you see one deer leap across the roadway, brace yourself. There might be three or four or following.”

If you see deer while you’re driving, Schieldrop said to slow down and be ready for the deer to make a sudden or unexpected movement. He added to be careful about stopping quick or swerving, because you don’t want to cause a crash while you’re trying to avoid one.