Kentucky State Police is reminding motorists that with the arrival of fall comes an increased risk of deer on roadways.
“Autumn has arrived in Kentucky, bringing cooler temperatures and colorful foliage to the commonwealth. Kentucky State Police … reminds motorists that fall is the peak season for deer-related crashes. Drivers need to be mindful of the increased dangers deer can create on Kentucky roads,” Kentucky State Police said.
State police said deer “often roam in groups, so if a motorist sees one cross the road, they should immediately slow down in anticipation of additional deer.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are about one million car crashes involving deer each year that kill 200 people, injure more than 10,000 and result in $1 billion in damage to vehicles.
In 2023, there were 3,285 deer-related crashes in Kentucky, resulting in 202 injuries and three fatalities.
KSP offers the following reminders for Kentucky drivers:
- Be aware: Be on the lookout for deer crossing signs throughout the state.
- Slow down: Reduce your speed while traveling through an area prone to deer.
- Never veer from deer: Sudden sharp turns could place a driver in the path of oncoming traffic or cause your vehicle to strike a fixed object, such as a tree or utility pole.
- Herd awareness: Deer travel in groups. Motorists who see a deer cross the road, should immediately anticipate that additional deer could enter the roadway.
- Timing is everything: Deer are most active at dusk and dawn, when your vision is most compromised. Additionally, deer are on the move during mating season (between October and January).
- Buckle up: If a collision is unavoidable, hitting the deer is often safer than swerving. Wearing a seatbelt is your best defense during a crash.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
