MDOT warns drivers to be alert for deer along highways

Posted: Sep 30, 2020 / 09:14 AM CDT

Updated: Sep 30, 2020 / 01:07 PM CDT

JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – As summer turns into fall in Mississippi, deer will become more active and visible on Mississippi roads. The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is reminding drivers to take precautions to avoid collisions with deer.

“Mississippi averages over 3,700 reported deer-related crashes per year,” said Melinda McGrath, P.E., MDOT Executive Director. “Hitting a deer can be a very costly expense and sometimes it can cause a life-threatening accident.”

In 2019, there were 4,058 reported deer-related crashes in Mississippi. However, the number of incidents could be as high as 22,000 according to one insurance industry analysis.

Drivers should be aware of large animals near the road and have a plan of action. Keeping calm and driving smart improve drivers’ chances of avoiding collisions and staying safe on the road.

Though deer season peaks from October through January, deer can run on or near roadways at any time of the year.

Don’t veer for deer. If a deer runs in front of a moving car, remain calm and brake firmly. Swerving can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, causing an even more serious accident.
Deer are herd animals. Take extra caution for deer lingering around the same area.
Remain vigilant when driving at dawn and dusk. About 20 percent of crashes occur in early morning, while more than half occur between 5 p.m. and midnight.
Always buckle up for safety and drive at a safe speed.
At night use high beams, when no traffic is approaching, to illuminate the eyes of deer near the road. Make sure both headlights and high beams are cleaned and aimed correctly.

“No matter if a driver is traveling rural roads or busy highways, the threat of hitting a deer while driving is very real,” McGrath said. “All motorists should take extra precautions during deer season to ensure their safety while traveling.”

MDOT urges motorists to avoid distracted driving and buckle up for safety when traveling Mississippi’s highways and roadways during deer season.