Deer & Animal Collisions

Collisions with deer and other animals happen more than a million times a year in the U.S., causing injuries, deaths and expensive damage. The most dangerous crashes often happen when drivers swerve to avoid the animal and hit a tree, a pole or another car.

• All drivers
• Rural roads

When and where

• Time of day: dawn and dusk, and at night.
• Time of year: fall, especially October through December, during mating and hunting seasons.
• Places: roads near woods, fields and water, and where deer crossing signs are posted.

Spotting animals

• Scan the edges of the road, not just the lane ahead.
• Use high beams on dark roads when there’s no oncoming traffic; watch for eyes reflecting your lights.
• Where you see one deer, expect more. They often travel in groups.
• Slow down in posted crossing areas and at night.

If an animal is in the road

1. Brake firmly and stay in your lane.
2. Don’t swerve. Hitting a deer is usually less dangerous than leaving the road or crossing into oncoming traffic.
3. Hold the wheel firmly and bring the car to a controlled stop.
4. A long blast on the horn may scare the animal off the road.

Motorcyclists face a much higher risk of serious injury from animal strikes. Slow down in deer areas and keep scanning. See Motorcycle Safety.

Large animals

Moose and elk are tall enough that a car can hit their legs and the body can come through the windshield. Slow down in moose country, especially at night, and brake hard if one is on the road.

After hitting an animal

• Pull off the road, turn on hazard lights and check for injuries.
• Stay away from an injured animal. A hurt deer can kick and cause serious injuries.
• Call police if the animal is blocking the road or there’s significant damage or injury.
• Check the vehicle for damage to lights, hood and fluids before driving on.
• Take photos for insurance.

Last updated: October 1, 2026