KSP warns drivers to be vigilant during peak deer movement

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) — Kentucky State Police warns drivers that Fall is the peak season for deer-related crashes.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are around one million deer-related crashes each year that kill 200 Americans and cause more than 10,000 personal injuries.

KSP provides these reminders for all drivers:

• Be on the lookout for deer crossing signs throughout the state.
• Reduce your speed while traveling through an area prone to deer.
• Sudden sharp turns could place a driver in the path of oncoming traffic or cause your vehicle to strike a fixed object, such as a tree or utility pole.
• Deer travel in groups. Drivers who see a deer cross the road, should immediately anticipate that additional deer could enter the roadway.
• Deer are most active at dusk and dawn, when your vision is most compromised. Additionally, deer are on the move during mating season (between October and January).
• If a collision is unavoidable, hitting the deer is often safer than swerving. Wearing a seatbelt is your best defense during a crash and is also the law.

Authorities say drivers should be mindful of the increased dangers deer can create on the road.

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