Sunday, January 19, 2025
KANSAS – Most deer accidents are worse during the spring and fall season, but with warmer temperatures in the recent weeks, they have been prominent.
The most common times for deer accidents are during the hours of sunrise and dusk, specifically between 4 and 6 p.m. During these hours, deer are typically very active, making it a high-risk period for collisions.
Reduce speed and be alert near wooded areas or green spaces such as parks or golf courses and near water such as streams or ponds. Deer crossing signs indicate where high levels of deer/vehicle crashes have occurred in the past. Use your bright lights to help you detect deer as far ahead as possible.
Here are some tips for driving safely around deer in Kansas:
• Be alert
Pay close attention to the road and roadside, and look for deer, especially at dawn and dusk when visibility is low.
• Slow down
Reduce your speed when approaching deer-crossing signs, near woods, parks, golf courses, and streams or creeks.
• Use high beams
High beams help illuminate deer's eyes and allow for more response time.
• Don't swerve
Swerving to avoid a deer can lead to more serious crashes, such as losing control of your vehicle, running off the road, or hitting another vehicle.
• Wear a seat belt
Always wear a seat belt, and make sure your passengers are wearing seat belts as well.
• Report the crash
If you hit a deer, pull over onto the shoulder or off the road, turn on your emergency flashers, and contact local law enforcement. You must report the crash if there is personal injury or property damage of $1,000 or more.
• Be aware of other deer
Deer often travel in groups, so if you see one deer, there may be more.
• Avoid distractions
Avoid distractions like texting or using your phone, which can reduce your reaction time.
