Environment DEC
From the December 2004 issue
DEC Cautions Motorists about Encountering Deer on Roadways
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Erin M. Crotty cautioned motorists to be on the lookout for deer during the peak season for deer-vehicle collisions. It is estimated that there are more than 50,000 deer-vehicle collisions in New York State each year.
Automobile collisions with deer
can cause property damage, as
well as injuries and even fatalities
to drivers and passengers
"The deer population is estimated at just under one million in New York State, and this is the time of year when drivers should be even more alert to the dangers deer pose on our roads," Commissioner Crotty said. "I encourage all motorists to follow DEC's precautions this fall and winter to help prevent accidents in our communities."
Peak Periods
According to statistics compiled by DEC since 1985, the peak period for deer-vehicle collisions is October through December. The high incidence of deer-vehicle collisions in early November corresponds to the peak of the annual deer breeding cycle when deer are more active and less cautious in their movements. Nearly two-thirds of the annual collisions occur during this three-month period, with most of the collisions occurring between 6:30 and 7:30 AM and 4:30 and 6:30 PM.
Advice to Motorists
DEC strongly advises motorists to take the following precautions to prevent deer-vehicle collisions:
- Use extreme caution when driving at dawn or dusk, especially from late fall through December and when visibility is poor.
- Slow down when approaching deer standing near the roadside; they may bolt at the last minute as your vehicle gets closer.
- If you see a deer cross the road, be alert for others that may follow.
- Flash your headlights to warn other drivers when you spot deer near the road
- Be alert and use extreme caution when traveling through deer crossing areas; they usually are marked with road signs.
Keeping a Carcass
New York State Environmental Conservation Law allows motorists who hit and kill deer with their vehicles to keep the carcass. However, a special permit must be obtained from the investigating officer at the scene of the accident before a carcass may be removed.
