10/11/2024
Motorists are reminded to drive with extra caution and watch for deer at this time of the year. Deer are more likely to suddenly run onto roadways during their mating season, known as the rut, which runs from late October through mid-December in New Jersey. Increased deer activity is more likely to occur in the early morning and around sunset when visibility may be difficult. Awareness will become even more important when daylight saving time ends on Sunday, November 3, causing many commutes to align with the periods when deer are most active.
These tips can help drivers stay safe during the fall rut:
• Slow down if you see a deer and then watch for sudden movement. If the deer is in the road and doesn’t move, wait for the deer to cross and the road is clear. Do not try to drive around the deer.
• Watch for “Deer Crossing” signs. Drive slower when traveling through areas known to have a high concentration of deer so there is enough time to stop, if necessary.
• Use high beams during dark periods if there is no oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead. High beams will be reflected by the eyes of deer on or near roads.
• If you see one deer, assume that others may be in the area.
• Don’t tailgate. The driver ahead might have to stop suddenly to avoid colliding with a deer.
• Always wear a seatbelt, as required by law. Drive at a safe and sensible speed, following the speed limit, factoring for weather, available lighting, traffic, curves and other road conditions.
• Do not swerve to avoid impact if a collision appears inevitable; a deer may counter-maneuver suddenly. Brake appropriately and stay in your lane. Collisions are more likely to become fatal when a driver swerves to avoid a deer and instead collides with oncoming traffic or a fixed structure along the road.
• Report any deer-vehicle collision to a local law enforcement agency immediately.
• Obey the state’s hands-free device law or refrain from using cellular devices while driving.
NJDEP Press Release: https://dep.nj.gov/newsrel/24_0046/
