Danger on the Road: Deer Collision Data
Across Virginia, November is the peak month for collisions between vehicles and deer. Deer are more active in the fall as a result of mating season. Increased development of traditionally rural and wooded areas, reduced daylight hours, and increased deer activity makes collisions more likely. With this in mind, we want to remind motorists to be careful, especially when driving at dawn or dusk and in areas where deer are prevalent.
Wildlife biologists with the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) estimate the population of white-tailed deer in the Commonwealth at this time of year to be approximately one million. We see an abundance of deer here on Center, but many people are shocked to hear that the last few United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) field surveys have recorded a 500 to 700+ count herd size between LaRC and our neighbors at LAFB!
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are more than one million car accidents with deer each year that kill as many as 200 Americans, cause more than 10,000 personal injuries, and result in more than $1 billion in vehicle damage. Virginia is ranked 10th for the most deer-car collisions by state. In fact, according to a study by StateFarm, it is estimated that from July 2015 to June 2016, a driver in Virginia has a 1 in 97 chance of having a collision with a deer.
To reduce the chances of hitting a deer, drive slow and use immediate caution if you see one. When driving after dark, use high-beam headlights to increase the range of vision. If it’s too late to avoid a collision with a deer, stay in the lane and slow down as much as possible to minimize damage. A collision with another vehicle, tree, or other object is likely to be more serious than hitting a deer. If there is a collision, notify law enforcement and your insurance company as soon as possible. Only take photos if it is safe enough to do so.
For more information about LaRC’s natural resources, please contact Peter Van Dyke at peter.vandyke@nasa.gov
