10/14/2026
The most serious deer-vehicle traffic crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid the animal and hit another vehicle or a fixed object such as a tree or the vehicle rolls over.
Stay alert, awake, aware, and sober, and drive at safe speeds.
Notice where deer crossing signs are posted, which alert drivers of the possible presence of deer.
Be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for deer to dash out in front of you.
Scan the roadside while driving, especially woodlots, fencerows, field edges, and areas near water, which deer use for feeding.
Slow down. Be prepared to stop if deer are near the road. If a deer stops and stays on the road, do not try to go around it.
Deer typically follow one another in single file, so if you see one deer, there are likely more nearby.
Use high-beam headlights and additional driving lights to see the road better.
Look for the reflection of headlights in a deer’s eyes and deer silhouettes on the shoulder of the road.
Information about the Organization & History of the Michigan State Police. Mission statement, value statement, vision statement, philosophy of leadership.
