Avoiding Accidents with Deer: Tips for Safe Driving in Illinois

As the days shorten and the fall season approaches, deer activity increases across Illinois, making it a prime time for deer-related accidents on the roads. Deer are most active during dawn and dusk, and drivers should be especially vigilant during these times. November is the peak month for deer-related accidents in Illinois, accounting for nearly 50% of all deer vs auto incidents. October and December are also high-risk months.

Here at La Salle Body & Fender, we are often busy with deer related repairs from harvest season through Christmas. In Illinois, our risk of encountering deer on the road is particularly high due to our extensive rural areas, farmland and forested regions. Knowing how to avoid accidents with deer and what to do if one suddenly appears in front of your vehicle can help keep you safe.

Understanding Deer Behavior in Illinois

Deer populations are abundant in Illinois, with our state ranking high in the number of deer-vehicle collisions nationwide. According to IDOT, there were over 14,000 reported deer-related accidents in Illinois in 2023. These incidents are most common during the fall, especially in November, which coincides with the deer mating season (the rut). During this time, deer are more likely to be on the move, increasing the chances of crossing paths with vehicles.

Tips for Avoiding Deer Accidents

1. Be Extra Cautious During Peak Activity Times
   • Deer are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. These low-light conditions make it harder to spot deer on the road. Slow down and remain vigilant during these times, especially in areas where deer crossings are common.
2. Use Your High Beams Wisely
   • When driving at night, use your high beams whenever possible to increase your visibility. However, be sure to switch to low beams if there is oncoming traffic. High beams can also reflect in the eyes of deer, making them easier to spot from a distance.
3. Stay Alert in Deer Crossing Areas
   • Pay attention to deer crossing signs. These signs are placed in areas where deer activity is high. Reduce your speed and stay alert, as deer often travel in groups. If you see one deer, it’s likely that others are nearby.
4. Use Your Horn
   • If you spot a deer near the road, a long blast of your horn may scare it away. Deer are unpredictable, but using your horn can sometimes prevent them from running into the road.

What to Do If a Deer Runs Out in Front of Your Vehicle

Even with all precautions, there’s still a chance you may encounter a deer on the road. Here’s what you should do:

• Stay Calm and Brake Firmly: If a deer is in your path, the best course of action is to brake as hard as possible while staying in your lane. Reducing your speed will lessen the impact and give the deer more time to get out of the way.
• Do Not Swerve: Swerving to avoid the deer could cause you to lose control of your vehicle and result in a more severe accident, possibly involving other vehicles or roadside obstacles.
• Hold Onto the Steering Wheel: Grip the steering wheel tightly and prepare for impact if a collision is inevitable. This will help you maintain control of your vehicle after the impact.
• Report the Accident: If you hit a deer, move your vehicle to a safe location, turn on your hazard lights, and call the local authorities. In Illinois, it’s important to report the accident to the police, especially if there is significant vehicle damage or if the deer is obstructing traffic.

Deer-related accidents are a significant concern in Illinois, especially during the fall. By understanding deer behavior and following these safety tips, you can reduce your chances of being involved in a collision. Always stay alert, use your headlights effectively, and remember that it’s safer to brake and stay in your lane than to swerve. If you do hit a deer, prioritize your safety and follow the proper steps to handle the situation.

Stay safe on the roads this fall, and keep an eye out for deer! If you do happen to have a run in with a deer, our team at LaSalle Body & Fender can get your vehicle road worthy and looking new quickly. We work with all insurance companies. Contact us or call us today at 815-223-0598.