BUFFALO, N.Y. — Autumn is a peak time for vehicle-animal crashes on roadways.
According to AAA, October, November and December are peak months for animal-related crashes, and is the first most common factor in crashes in New York.
AAA cites Traffic Safety Management & Research (ITSMR) data that shows more than 35,000 animal-related crashes occurred across the state in 2023. Of those crashes, more than 1,500 resulted in a injury and nine deaths.
AAA recommends motorists to be extra cautious as deer crashes often happen in the dark.
“Drivers should always be on the lookout for hazards on the road, but the danger of wild animals increases in the fall season,” said Elizabeth Carey, director of public relations at AAA Western and Central New York in a release. “Car-deer collisions can be both deadly and costly. Drivers should pay close attention, avoid distractions and scan the road for deer when traveling on area roadways.”
AAA offers these tips to help reduce your risk of hitting an animal on the roadway.
- Scan the road. Especially the shoulders of the road in front of you. Deer may dash out from the shoulder or wooded areas adjacent to the road. They often travel in herds.
- Follow the speed limit. Keeping your speed down will give you more time to respond to unexpected wildlife movements.
- Can’t avoid a collision? Apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane. Swerving sharply to avoid an animal can often cause a more serious crash.
