(WFRV) – As the summer starts to turn over to fall, WisDOT officials are urging drivers to be cautious while out on the road, as this is the time of year when deer activity increases throughout the state.
According to a release from WisDOT, more deer are on the move this time of year as it is said to be the fall rut or mating season, meaning there is a greater risk for drivers to crash with deer out on the road.
Four people hurt following multi-vehicle crash in Wisconsin
Officials say last year saw more than 17,000 crashes involving deer, resulting in nine people dying and 707 being injured. It is said that over one-third of these reported crashes occurred during October and November.
This is the time of year when we typically see the most crashes involving deer. As the hours of daylight become shorter and more deer are crossing the highways, drivers should be especially cautious and scan the road ahead to prevent dangerous crashes.
Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan
The following counties had the most crashes involving deer in 2024:
- Waukesha – 937
- Washington – 798
- St. Croix – 791
- Dane – 770
- Sheboygan – 763
- Fond du Lac – 683
- Outagamie – 666
- Manitowoc – 645
- Walworth – 550
- Winnebago – 532
WisDOT officials say that deer can be unpredictable and can suddenly freeze or change directions. They suggest the best ways to avoid hitting deer while driving are to drive at a safe speed, eliminate distractions, and make sure everyone in the vehicle is buckled, as injuries in a crash can be less severe or even avoided if a seatbelt is being worn.
It is suggested that drivers also scan the road ahead of them, and if one deer crosses, be sure to watch for more. Drivers who come across deer in the roadway can honk their horn to encourage the deer to move away from the road.
If a driver cannot avoid crashing into a deer, officials say to brake firmly and stay in the same lane as sudden swerving can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle and to a much more serious crash.
A driver who hits a deer should first get their vehicle safely off the road as soon as possible. Officials with the Shawano County Sheriff’s Office say drivers do not have to call authorities or 911 if the deer is off the roadway or not injured, there are no injuries to anyone inside the vehicle, and if the vehicle involved does not need to be towed.
Fatal overdose investigation leads to standoff in Sheboygan
They add that the times to make a 911 call are only if someone is injured, the involved vehicle is disabled, blocking traffic, or needs to be towed, or if the deer is hurt or needs to be removed from the roadway.
If a 911 call is warranted, authorities will respond to the scene, gather information, and complete a crash report. In a situation where 911 is not needed, drivers are encouraged to complete a self-reporting crash through the WisDOT website.
