It’s Deer Mating Season: Watch the Road

By ecoRI  News staff

The state Department of Environmental Management (DEM), the Department of Transportation and the State Police are advising motorists to be alert for deer, particularly at dawn and dusk. Deer mating season is underway and will continue through November and much of December.

So far this year, according to the DEM, 1,075 auto strikes of deer have been reported in Rhode Island, with high numbers reported in North Kingstown (93), Cumberland/Lincoln (77), South Kingstown (72), Smithfield/North Smithfield (68), Warwick (64), Narragansett (40) and West Greenwich (38).

More than 1,000 deer have been hit by cars
in Rhode Island this year.

Deer tend to move around more frequently during this time, and November is typically the peak period for road kills. Many deer live and roam in suburban and urban areas. Deer dart out suddenly and often travel together, so motorists should watch for any other deer that may try to cross the road, following the first one.

DEM officials caution that motorists should slow down while driving at dawn and dusk, use high beams when possible, and always use seat belts.

The best way to prevent a collision is to remain alert while driving. Some people report success blowing the horn in one long blast, while other drivers report success with “deer whistles,” although studies haven’t proven their effectiveness.

Swerving suddenly to avoid the deer can result in a more severe accident, as drivers lose control by crashing into oncoming traffic or going off the road. The best approach is to slow down at night in areas where deer are common. If a deer does suddenly appear, drivers should use controlled braking to avoid or minimize a direct impact with the animal. Deer struck head-on will succumb, but the driver and passengers might be saved from a more serious outcome.

Anyone who strikes a deer should exercise caution when approaching, as it may only be stunned, and a person could become seriously injured by a wounded animal’s attempt to escape. In accordance with state law, any deer-vehicle collision must be reported to DEM’s 24-hour dispatch office at 401-222-3070, as well as to local police and the driver’s insurance company.

The owner of the vehicle involved in the accident may choose to keep the deer with a permit from DEM. The owner may request a permit when calling the 24-hour dispatch office to report the accident.