There were almost 20,000 deer-related crashes in Ohio last year, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the state of Ohio and AAA are urging drivers to watch out for deer this fall.
The Ohio Department of Insurance, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio Department of Natural resources, and AAA released a joint statement on Wednesday, urging drivers to be careful.
“I encourage everyone to always be attentive while driving on Ohio’s roadways, especially during this peak time of year for deer-related crashes,” said Gov. Mike DeWine in a statement. “Always use your safety belt and never drive distracted.”
Deer become much more active during their mating season in late October and November, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
“Deer increase their daily movements in the fall months, but they are incredibly unpredictable,” said ODNR wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker in a statement. “The best advice to keep everyone safe is to stay alert and remember deer rarely run alone.”
In 2019, there were 250 deer-related accidents in Ashtabula County, said OSHP Lt. Tina Jackson. So far this year, there have been 138 crashes, she said. One of those crashes caused serious injuries, 10 of them caused minor injuries, two caused possible injuries, and 125 caused property damage, Jackson said.
The state provided a number of suggestions to help drivers avoid car-deer crashes. Drivers are encouraged to scan the road ahead to give yourself more reaction time. When there is no oncoming traffic, driver should also use their high-beam headlights, which can make it easier to see animals’ reflective eyes, according to the statement.
Drivers are encouraged to be more careful at dawn and dusk, when deer tend to be more active. If a collision is unavoidable, drivers should stay in their lane and apply the brakes firmly, according to the statement. Swerving can cause an even worse accident.
Drivers should wear a seatbelt and remain alert, awake and sober, according to the statement.
Anyone who is involved in a collision with a deer should call the police, activate their hazard lights, and avoid going near the animal, according to the statement.
The average insurance claim for deer-vehicle collisions in Ohio is nearly $4,000, according to the statement.
“Ohio drivers should stay focused and avoid distractions at all times, especially this time of year when the deer are extremely active,” said Tynesia Dorsey, interim director of the Ohio Department of Insurance, in a statement.
“I also urge Ohioans to contact their insurance agent to ensure they have appropriate financial protection if an accident occurs.”