With more deer active around Illinois roads during this time of year, AAA – The Auto Club Group is urging motorists to take precaution to avoid collisions.
The mating season of a deer in Illinois typically runs from October through January, with the peak in the middle of November. This, coupled with the loss of daylight during most motorists’ commutes, makes October, November and December the worst months of the year for motor vehicle collisions with animals.
In 2023, there were 14,862 crashes involving deer in Illinois. Of those, 14,192 resulted in damage to property or vehicles, while 663 caused injuries. Seven of the crashes resulted in fatalities.
“A collision with a deer can be devastating, endangering the passengers, the vehicle and the deer,” said Molly Hart, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “We urge motorists to always scan the sides of roads for deer, as well as other animals, and to be extra vigilant during this time.”
AAA encourages motorists to adhere to the following tips this deer season:
- Be especially attentive in the early morning and evening hours as many animals (especially deer) are most active from 5-8 a.m. and 5-8 p.m. – prime commuting times for most drivers.
- Use high beams when there is no oncoming traffic – your lights will often reflect off the animal’s eyes and reveal their location.
- Watch for water on the side of the road as it often attracts deer.
- If you spot a deer, slow down and watch for other deer to appear – as they rarely travel alone.
- As you slow down, blast your horn to frighten the animal away from the road.
- Brake firmly. Do not swerve or leave your lane as many crashes from deer are a result of hitting other cars
- Check with your insurance agent to make sure you have comprehensive coverage that includes animal collision.
In the event of a collision with a deer:
- Avoid making contact with the deer as a frightened or wounded animal can hurt you or further injure itself.
- Put your vehicle’s hazard lights on whether it is light or dark out.
- If possible, move the vehicle to a safe location, out of the road, as you wait for help to arrive.
- For insurance purposes, call your local law enforcement or highway patrol.
- To report an injured deer in Illinois you can call the local law enforcement non-emergency number and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 64 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
***Courtesy of The Auto Club Group***
