Since 2005, accidents have resulted in 17 fatalities, millions of dollars in damage
RALEIGH — To help decrease the number of wildlife and automobile crashes, the N.C. Department of Transportation reminds motorists to be aware of the increased presence of deer on North Carolina's roads this fall.
More than 15,500 animal-related crashes are reported each year — 90 percent involving deer. Since 2005, the incidents have resulted in 3,028 human injuries, of which 17 were fatal, and nearly $116 million in property damage.
“Because of the state’s rapid growth, we are seeing more and more deer-related accidents in suburban areas as the animals are forced to move toward new areas,” said State Traffic Engineer Kevin Lacy. “Drivers need to stay focused and alert, especially on rural highways.”
While a crash involving a deer can happen at any time, the majority of deer-vehicle collisions occur between the months of October and December, when deer activity increases due to the mating and hunting seasons. Incidents are most common during the hours of 5 p.m. to 7 a.m., when deer movement increases and limited lighting makes it more difficult for motorists to see them on or near roadways.
Between 2005 and 2007, there were 52,643 animal-related collisions reported throughout North Carolina. The top five counties were Wake County (1,076 incidents), Guilford County (590), Duplin County (550), Rockingham County (536) and Pitt County (502). Wake County has had the most animal-related crashes for the past 10 years.
NCDOT offers the following suggestions for motorists to avoid being in a deer-vehicle collision:
Slow down in posted deer crossing areas and heavily wooded areas, especially during the late afternoon and evening.
Drive with high beams on, when possible, and watch out for eyes reflecting in the headlights.
Remember that deer often travel in groups, so do not assume that the road is clear if one deer has already passed.
Do not swerve to avoid contact with deer. This could cause the vehicle to flip or veer into oncoming traffic, causing a more serious crash.
***NCDOT*** Jerry Higgins Communications Officer N.C. Department of Transportation w: (919) 715-2397 f: (919) 733-9980
