With the arrival of the fall breeding season, the state Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Fish and Wildlife is reminding motorists to be alert for white-tailed deer, which may unexpectedly dart onto roads and cause accidents.
Motorists are urged to be especially attentive and cautious during morning and evening commutes when visibility may be poor, according to a press release from the DEP. Deer are involved in thousands of collisions annually in New Jersey, with as many as half coming during the fall mating season, or rutting season, which peaks in November. An adult male deer can weigh 150 pounds or more.
During rutting season, deer are most active in the very early morning and around sunset, when visibility conditions can be very difficult. This is when bucks are most actively pursuing does. Using caution while driving will become even more important when Daylight Saving Time ends Nov. 6, causing commutes to align with periods when deer are most active, according to the press release.
For motorists, low levels of light and sun glare can make it very difficult to see deer that are about to cross the road. Moreover, multiple deer may cross the road at any given moment, usually in a single file.
Peak rutting season for deer in New Jersey runs from late October through November and into mid-December in all areas of the state, beginning earliest in northern regions, according to the press release.
The following tips can help motorists stay safe during rutting season:
• If you see a deer, slow down and pay attention to possible sudden movement. If the deer does not move, do not go around it. Wait for the deer to pass and the road is clear.
• Pay attention to “Deer Crossing” signs. Slow down when traveling through areas known to have a high concentration of deer so you will have ample time to stop if necessary.
• If you are traveling after dark, use high beams when there is no oncoming traffic. High beams will be reflected by the eyes of deer on or near roads. If you see one deer, be on guard, others may be in the area. Deer typically move in family groups at this time of year and cross roads single-file.
• Do not tailgate. Remember, the driver in front of you might have to stop suddenly to avoid hitting a deer.
• Always wear a seat belt, as required by law. Drive at a safe and sensible speed, considering weather, available lighting, traffic, curves and other road conditions.
• If a collision appears inevitable, do not swerve to avoid impact. The deer may counter-maneuver suddenly. Brake appropriately, but stay in your lane. Collisions are more likely to become fatal when a driver swerves to avoid a deer and instead collides with oncoming traffic or a fixed structure along the road.
• Report any deer-vehicle collision to a local law enforcement agency immediately.
