OHIO — AAA and several state agencies are reminding drivers to exercise caution this time of year due to the increase in deer-related traffic accidents, according to a press release.

What You Need To Know

  • AAA and several state agencies are reminding drivers to exercise caution this time of year due to the increase in deer-related traffic accidents

  • There have been 104,328 deer-related accidents in Ohio since 2018, and almost half (47%) took place in October, November and December
  • The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife noted in the release that deer are more active these months partly because fall is breeding season

There have been 104,328 deer-related accidents in Ohio since 2018, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, 33 of which resulted in fatal injuries. Almost half of these accidents (47%) took place in October, November and December.

“Ohio drivers should keep in mind that deer activity always increases during this time of year – especially at dawn and dusk,” Gov. Mike DeWine said in the release. “With Ohio’s strengthened distracted driving laws now in place, we anticipate that more drivers will stay alert to their surroundings, and as a result, we hope fewer deer-related crashes will take place this fall.”

The release states that every county saw at least 50 deer-related accidents but that Stark, Richland, Hancock and Defiance saw the most. The following routes saw the most accidents: U.S. Route 30, state Route 2, Interstate 71, Interstate 75 and Interstate 77.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife noted in the release that deer are more active these months partly because fall is breeding season. It can lead to unpredicatable behaviour including darting into the road. The release urges motorists to show caution when driving on streets where "fencerows, riparian corridors or other blocks of forested habitat intersect a roadway."

"With deer activity on the rise, it's extra important at this time of year to watch for deer," Division of Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker said in the release. "Deer often move in groups, so if you see one, slow down and be prepared for more to cross the road."

The release states that the average Ohio insurance claim for a deer-related accident is about $5,000. It also noted that newer vehicle sensors can drive that repair cost up.

"In the event of an accident, it's important to have adequate insurance for financial protection," Ohio Department of Insurance Director Judith L. French said in the release. "Now is the time for Ohioans to contact their insurance agents to complete an insurance review."

The release offers the following tips for avoiding an animal collision:

  • Scan the road ahead
  • Use high-beam headlights if there is no oncoming traffic
  • Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk
  • If collision is unavoidable, apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane
  • Always wear a seatbelt and remain awake, alert and sober

If you are in an accident with a deer, the release encourages the following:

  • Call the police
  • Avoid contact with the animal
  • Turn on hazard lights
  • If possible, move vehicle to safe location
  • Contact insurance agent/company to report damage

Drivers can call #677 to be connected to the closest Ohio State Highway Patrol post.

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