ALBANY- Officials at the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) are warning motorists to watch for deer as the increased risk of crashes comes during the animals’ most active season, October, November, and December. According to the University at Albany’s Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research, in 2022, 41.5 percent of the crashes between deer and vehicles occurred during this three-month span.
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) notes the period when deer are most active and more likely to enter public roadways is due to the height of their breeding season. “Fall is the time of year wildlife activity across New York State is most prevalent, especially for deer or moose crossing roadways and creating the potential for an accident,” said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. “Regardless of where you live in New York State, motorists should be on the lookout for wildlife that may cross their paths and follow key safety tips to avoid animal encounters while on the road.”
Motorists should be aware animals are especially active at dawn and dusk, when visibility may be reduced and commuter traffic may be heavy. “Fall is a wonderful time to drive around New York State to enjoy the beautiful colors as the leaves change, but it is also a time to keep a careful watch for animals in the roadway,” said Mark J.F. Schroeder, DMV Commissioner and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. “You should watch for deer-crossing signs and for animals at the side of the road that may suddenly dart into traffic.”
DMV recommends you decrease speed when you approach deer near roadsides. Deer can “bolt” or change direction at the last minute and if you see a deer go across the road you should decrease your speed. Deer often travel in groups, so expect other deer to follow.
It is also recommended that motorists use a headlight signal to warn other drivers when deer are seen on or near the road. Motorists are…
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