COLUMBUS, Ohio — As the transition from fall to winter begins, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds motorists to remain alert behind the wheel, particularly during morning and evening commutes.
“We know that deer activity typically increases at dawn and dusk, when visibility is low and many drivers are traveling to and from work,” Gov. Mike DeWine said.
“To keep yourself and other drivers safe, I encourage everyone to drive defensively, follow the posted speed limit, and never drive distracted.”
Troopers typically see an increase in deer-related collisions in November due to peak breeding season and the end of daylight saving time.
To reduce the risk of collisions, the patrol advises drivers to:
- Note the time of day, as deer are most active between sunset and sunrise.
- Look beyond the vehicle’s headlights and scan roadside shoulders for deer.
- Brake firmly rather than swerving. If a collision cannot be avoided, stay in the lane while applying the brakes.
- Move safely off the roadway and call 911 or the nearest patrol post following a crash. Never approach an injured deer.
Patrol data shows 111,359 deer-involved crashes statewide since early 2021, resulting in 49 fatal collisions and 50 deaths. While motorcyclists account for just 1% of deer-related crashes, they represent 82% of the fatalities.
“By staying alert and committing to safe driving practices, you can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a crash,” said Col. Charles A. Jones, patrol superintendent. “We strongly encourage drivers to slow down, eliminate distractions and always be prepared to stop their vehicle.”
Drivers can report crashes or erratic driving by calling #677. Additional crash statistics are available through the Ohio Statistics and Analytics for Traffic Safety dashboard on the patrol’s website.