Environment DEC
From the December 2003 issue
DEC Cautions Motorists About Deer Encounters
DEC urges motorists to drive with care as we continue through the peak season for deer-vehicle collisions.
According to statistics compiled by DEC since 1985, the peak period for deer-vehicle collisions is October through December. Nearly two-thirds of collisions are reported during this three-month period, with most occurring from 6:30 am to 7:30 am, and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm.
DEC strongly advises motorists to observe the following precautions:
- Use extreme caution when driving at dawn or dusk and when visibility is poor.
- Slow down when approaching deer standing near the road, as they may bolt at any time and in any direction
- If you see a deer cross a road, be alert for others that may follow
- Use flashers or a headlight signal to warn other drivers when you spot deer near the road
- Be alert and use extreme caution when traveling through deer crossing areas, which are usually marked with road signs.
Motorists who have the misfortune of hitting and killing a deer with their vehicle may keep the deer for meat. However, motorists should not remove a deer carcass before the investigating officer at the scene of the accident issues a special permit for that purpose.
