Be alert for deer

The Illinois Department of Transportation, IDOT, and Illinois Department of Natural Resources, IDNR, are reminding motorists that during fall, they need to be especially vigilant and watch for deer on roads and highways throughout the state.

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,” Illinois Department of Transportation secretary Randy Blankenhorn said in a news release.

“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," he advised.

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.

Last year, there were 15,754 vehicle-deer crashes in Illinois, an increase of 2.5 percent from 2014. 

A total of 15,206 crashes resulted in damage to property or vehicles, up from the 14,854 in 2014. 

Injuries resulting from such crashes totalled 628 in 2015, compared to 505 in 2014. 

The number of fatalities doubled, from four in 2014 to eight in 2015.

Williamson County was in the top 10 Illinois counties for crashes involving deer in 2015, with 304.

“Deer are a constant presence throughout the year along and near Illinois roadways, but they are particularly active during the autumn mating season,” IDNR director Wayne Rosenthal said.

“Motorists should be extremely cautious and stay on the lookout for deer.”

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. 

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.

The Gazette-Democrat

112 Lafayette St.
Anna, Illinois 62906
Office Number: (618) 833-2158
Email: news@annanews.com

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