IDOT, IDNR urge caution on roads during fall
breeding season
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[November 07, 2016]
SPRINGFIELD
-
Fall is here and the time of year when motorists need to be
especially vigilant watching for deer on roads throughout the state,
according to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and
Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). The reason: Autumn
coincides with the mating season and increased deer movement,
especially at dusk and dawn. |
“Deer have other things on their minds at this time of year. They
aren't looking out for motorists, so motorists need to be looking
out for them,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Randy
Blankenhorn. “If you are in areas where you know deer to be active,
please pay special attention to avoid putting yourself and other
drivers at risk.”
Approximately 40 to 45 percent of crashes in Illinois involving deer
in 2015 occurred in October, November, and December – with November
being the highest-risk month. Almost 80 percent happened in rural
environments, with nearly 75 percent of all crashes taking place at
twilight or nighttime.
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Last year, there were 15,754 vehicle-deer crashes in Illinois, an
increase of 2.5 percent from 2014. There were 15,206 crashes that
resulted in damage to property or vehicles, up from the 14,854 in
2014. Injuries resulting from such crashes tallied 628 in 2015
versus 505 in 2014. The number of fatalities doubled, from four in
2014 to eight in 2015.
The top 10 Illinois counties for crashes involving deer in 2015:
- Madison - 440
- Cook - 431
- Will - 408
- Fulton - 376
- Sangamon - 359
- Rock Island - 322
- Williamson - 304
- Peoria - 297
- Lake - 290
- Pike - 289
“Deer are a constant presence throughout the year along and
near Illinois roadways, but they are particularly active during
the autumn mating season,” said IDNR Director Wayne Rosenthal.
“Motorists should be extremely cautious and stay on the lookout
for deer.” [to top of second
column] |
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Motorists at this time of year are urged to be aware of their surroundings, pay
attention to deer crossing signs and scan the sides of the road for eye shine –
the reflection of headlights in the eyes. Deer can stop in the middle of the
road or double back, so be prepared for the unexpected. Slow down if you see
deer – more are likely in the area.
If a collision is inevitable, try to glance the vehicle off the deer and avoid
swerving into the opposite lanes of traffic. More safe driving tips can be
viewed by clicking
here.
If you do hit a deer, pull off to the shoulder and turn on the hazard lights.
Call 911 to report the accident so the appropriate law enforcement can assist.
Do not get out of the vehicle to check on an injured deer or pull it from the
road. You can visit the
IDNR website for information on how to claim a deer that has been
involved in a crash.
[Illinois Department of
Transportation/Illinois Department of Natural Resources]
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