COLUMBUS, Ohio — Note: The video in the player above is from 2018, but contains useful information on driving during peak deer season.
The Ohio Department of Insurance, The Ohio State Highway Patrol, The Ohio Department of Natural Resources and AAA want to remind drivers of increased deer activity this time of year in the Buckeye State.
According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), deer become more active in the fall as it is mating season.
As male deer pursue female deer, it's common for them to dart into the roadway, which can cause a crash.
In 2019, the Ohio State Patrol says there were 19,375 deer related crashes on Ohio roads.
Of those crashes, there were four fatalities and 966 injuries. About 46% of these crashes were in the fall season.
The top counties for deer-related crashes are Stark, Richland, Lorain and Trumbull with US 30, I-71 and I-80 leading the roadways.
Vehicle versus deer crashes are not only dangerous, but costly.
A deer crash costs an average of nearly $4,000 in damage to a vehicle.
Experts offer this advice to avoid a crash with an animal on the road:
- Scan the road ahead
- Be extra cautious at dusk and dawn when they are more active
- If a crash is unavoidable, apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane, and always wear a seatbelt and remain awake, alert and sober.
If a deer is struck, motorists are advised to call the police. Don't make contact with the animal as if it's wounded, it may become aggressive; activate hazard lights, try to move the vehicle to the berm and contact your insurance agent.