Deer/Car Accidents Expected To Increase In New York

The warm weather is here and more people will be out on the roads, but make sure you are extra careful this month.

June is one of the worst months for Car/Deer accidents. Right now many pregnant deers are looking for a place to have their babies and could be more active near roads and highways.

READ MORE: TIPS TO AVOID DEER/CAR ACCIDENTS IN NEW YORK

Also with the warmer weather comes more motorcycles on the road, and accidents between motorcycles and deer are more deadly than with cars.

While deer may approach roadsides any time of the day, usually dawn and dusk are particularly dangerous when the animals are more active.

According to the New York State Department of Transportation, there are anywhere between 50,000 and 60,000 accidents every year involving deer and vehicles.

WHEN DO MOST DEER/CAR ACCIDENTS HAPPEN?

Deer are most active in New York between October and December. The are also very active in the month of June.

THE MOST DANGEROUS TIME FOR DEER/CAR ACCIDENTS

Most accidents involving deer are near dusk and dawn. This is when deer are most active looking for food. They also usually travel in groups, so if you see one, most likely more are around the area.

READ MORE: THIS IS THE MOST DANGEROUS ANIMAL IN NEW YORK STATE! 

WAY TO AVOID DEER/CAR ACCIDENTS

There are some ways you can lower your chance of a deer/car collision.

Pay Attention - When driving make sure you are aware of the surrounding areas, especially if you are near wooded areas.

Drive in the Center Lane - If there are multiple lanes, try to drive in the lane farthest from the side of the road. This will give you more time to react if a deer jumps out.

Use high beams if possible - If you are driving when it is dark and no one else is on the road, make sure to use your high beams. It will give you more awareness of deer.

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WHAT TO DO IF YOU HIT A DEER

If you do end up hitting a deer with your car, there are several things you should do.

Call 911 - Let the dispatcher know you hit a deer and report any injuries or damage

Do Not Approach the Deer - If the deer is injured, it most likely will be scared and if you approach it, it could end up injuring up by running and jumping

Move Your Car - If possible, move your car to the side of the road and put on your hazards as you wait for first responders to show up.

If you hit a deer make sure to report it and contact your insurance company if there is any damage to your car.