As the autumn months draw near, Pennsylvania residents should prepare for a surge in deer activity on the roads. AAA East Central’s director of public and legislative affairs, Jim Garrity, notes that October through December traditionally sees a rise in animal‑related crashes as deer become more active.

Why the risk spikes

Deer are drawn to the cooler weather and abundant food sources, leading them to cross highways more frequently. The timing also coincides with the end of daylight‑saving time, which means many commuters are traveling in darker conditions. While the change in daylight hours does not affect deer behavior, it does create a situation where drivers share the road with wildlife during periods of reduced visibility.

Statistics from recent research

New findings from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS) show that more than one‑third of deer‑vehicle collisions occur in October and November. An analysis of U.S. animal‑related crashes from 2020‑2024 identified over 1.7 million police‑reported incidents involving animals – roughly 350,000 each year – resulting in nearly 50,000 injuries and close to 300 fatalities.

Practical steps for safe driving

Garrity stresses that the most effective defense against deer‑related accidents is vigilance. Drivers are encouraged to:

• Stay focused and avoid distractions, especially younger or less‑experienced motorists.
• Watch for deer crossing signs, which mark areas of higher wildlife activity.
• Use high‑beam headlights on dark, rural roads when no on‑coming traffic is present.
• Maintain a safe speed that allows ample reaction time if an animal appears.

“If you’re looking down the road and you’re driving sober and attentively, and you see an animal or a family of deer, that gives you time to react,” Garrity said. “That gives you time to slow down, let them move, drive around them if that’s possible safely.”

Avoiding sudden maneuvers

When drivers try to swerve abruptly to avoid a deer, they may create a more dangerous situation, such as a collision with a tree, another vehicle, or even a rollover. In some cases, maintaining control of the vehicle and allowing the animal to pass is the safer choice.

Insurance and peace of mind

AAA also recommends that motorists verify they have comprehensive coverage, which can help offset repair costs if a collision does occur. Checking policy details before the season begins can provide added confidence on the road.

By staying alert, minimizing distractions, and respecting wildlife patterns, Pennsylvania drivers can help reduce the number of deer‑related accidents and keep themselves and their families safe throughout the hunting season.

Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.