Cooler nights bring increased wild animal movement
October and November are peak months for deer to be on the move, and the Missouri Department of Transportation is reminding drivers to be prepared and not drive distracted.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri consistently ranks 10th to 15th in the country in deer-vehicle collisions each year. In 2024, there were 2,952 crashes with deer, with four deaths and 420 injuries reported.
Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, and do unpredictable things, such as stopping in the middle of the road when crossing. A deer that is calmly standing on the side of the road may suddenly leap into traffic.
MoDOT offers the following safety tips for avoiding collisions with deer:
- Always wear your seat belt. It’s easy: Buckle Up Phone Down.
- Control your speed, stay alert and avoid distractions.
- Don’t swerve to avoid hitting a deer. Swerving can cause motorists to lose control and travel off the road or into oncoming traffic.
- Deer rarely travel alone. Slow down and keep an eye out for more deer. If a deer crosses the road in front of you, there is a good chance another deer will be following it.
- Don’t follow too closely. Remember: the driver in front of you might have to stop suddenly to avoid hitting a deer.
MoDOT maintenance crews address any animal or debris that poses a safety hazard, meaning the item is in the driving lanes. Individuals can report an animal carcass in the roadway to MoDOT by calling 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or by visiting www.modot.org/report-road-concern.
