Autumn brings an increase in deer activity, and drivers are reminded to watch carefully for deer darting across and along roadways, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
The following information has been taken from the Pennsylvania Department of Transporation website:
Fall marks the deer's breeding season, and deer pay less attention and become bolder as they move around more and travel greater distances seeking mates.
Primarily nocturnal feeders, deer are most active between sunset and sunrise. Other factors that affect the travel patterns of deer in the fall are farmers actively harvesting the last of their crops and preparing for spring planting, increased activity in the woods from hunters seeking game and outdoor enthusiasts enjoying the last remaining days of good weather.
By following a few safety tips, motorists and outdoor enthusiasts can help reduce the possibility of being involved in a crash with a deer. Remember to:
Slow down and use caution, particularly where deer crossing signs are posted and increase following distance between vehicles;
Make young drivers aware of increased deer movement;
Be especially watchful during morning and evening hours when wildlife is most active;
Exercise caution when one deer crosses a roadway. Since deer often travel in small herds, one deer will usually be followed by others;
Always wear your seat belt;
Never drive impaired; and
Turn on your headlights if your wipers are on — it's the law.
If a dead deer presents an obvious safety hazard on state roadways, motorists can call 1-800-FIX-ROAD to have the deer removed.
Image courtesy Laura College/Unsplash
