Oh, Deer: Potential Encounters to Rise in Coming Weeks
Fall
is here and the time of year when motorists need to be especially vigilant
watching for deer on roads throughout the state, according to the Illinois
Department of Transportation (IDOT) and Illinois Department of Natural
Resources (IDNR). The reason: Autumn coincides with the mating season and
increased deer movement, especially at dusk and dawn.
"Deer
have other things on their minds at this time of year. They aren't looking out
for motorists, so motorists need to be looking out for them," said
Illinois Transportation Secretary Randy Blankenhorn. "If you are in areas
where you know deer to be active, please pay special attention to avoid putting
yourself and other drivers at risk."
Approximately
40 to 45 percent of crashes in Illinois involving deer in 2015 occurred in
October, November, and December - with November being the highest-risk month.
Almost 80 percent happened in rural environments, with nearly 75 percent of all
crashes taking place at twilight or nighttime.
Last
year, there were 15,754 vehicle-deer crashes in Illinois, an increase of 2.5
percent from 2014. There were 15,206 crashes that resulted in damage to property
or vehicles, up from the 14,854 in 2014. Injuries resulting from such crashes
tallied 628 in 2015 versus 505 in 2014. The number of fatalities doubled, from
four in 2014 to eight in 2015.
The
top 10 Illinois counties for crashes involving deer in 2015:
- Madison
440
6. Rock Island 322
- Cook
431 7.
Williamson
304
- Will
408
8. Peoria
297
- Fulton
376
9. Lake
290
- Sangamon
359 10.
Pike
289
"Deer
are a constant presence throughout the year along and near Illinois roadways,
but they are particularly active during the autumn mating season," said
IDNR Director Wayne Rosenthal. "Motorists should be extremely cautious and
stay on the lookout for deer."
Motorists
at this time of year are urged to be aware of their surroundings, pay attention
to deer crossing signs and scan the sides of the road for eye shine - the
reflection of headlights in the eyes. Deer can stop in the middle of the road
or double back, so be prepared for the unexpected. Slow down if you see deer -
more are likely in the area.
If
a collision is inevitable, try to glance the vehicle off the deer and avoid
swerving into the opposite lanes of traffic. More safe driving tips can be
viewed by clicking here.
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