Deer Collisions Peak in November

Although car-animal crashes can occur in the Finger Lakes anytime, the first couple of weeks in November is the peak time for collisions with deer.

These types of crashed start to rise in October and go into December. A majority of crashes between deer and vehicles occurred between October and December, according to studies conducted by SUNY Albany. Deer are actively breeding in the fall season, which makes them more visible and more likely to show up suddenly on roadways.

“During the fall motorists need to drive with caution for deer especially in the dawn and early
evening hour,” said Yates County Sheriff Ron Spike, adding, “drivers need to heed the yellow deer
warning signs and pay special attention in those areas.” According to a State Farm Insurance survey,
between 30% and 50% of drivers collided with animals at dusk or dawn on a paved, rural road without
much traffic. Adding one risky driving behavior, such as speeding or using your phone, increases the
chance of an animal collision by 23%.

In Yates County there were over 400 car-deer crashes in 2022. In October of this year at present,
we are averaging two car-deer collisions a day. We recently had a deer crash into a motorcycle on Rte 14, and both occupants had serious injuries. If you encounter an animal on the roadway, brake firmly, but
swerving is not recommended. Swerving can cause a collision with another vehicle, a tree, a pole, or other objects going off the highway.

If you do strike an animal, the Department of Environmental Conservation advises motorists to
stay away from the animal. A frightened, wounded deer could use its powerful legs and sharp hooves to
harm you. Move your vehicle to a safe place. If possible, pull over to the side of the road, and turn on
your hazard lights. If you must leave your vehicle, stay off the road and out of the way of any oncoming
vehicles. Please call 911 after a collision with a deer, do not assume your vehicle is safe to drive. Look for
leaking fluid, loose parts, tire damage, broken lights, a hood that will not latch and other safety hazards. If your vehicle seems unsafe in any way, call for a tow truck.

Information provided by Yates County Sheriff’s Office, Penn Yan, New York 14527