Those who live in the northwoods know deer on the roads can be a hazard when driving, no matter the time of year.

But spring brings some special circumstances that increase the risk of vehicles and deer having a nasty encounter, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Deer activity goes up in May and June, as does look for places to give birth and last year’s fawns separate from their mothers. In turn, this means more deer crossing the roads and a greater chance for crashes, the Wisconsin DNR warns in a news release.

“Drivers should have their full attention on the road ahead to avoid deer crashes,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “Deer are unpredictable, often changing directions and freezing as they cross the road. Motorists should be alert and prepared to respond at all times.”

According to preliminary data, Wisconsin in 2025 had 17,795 crashes involving deer, causing six fatalities and 720 injuries.

Motorcyclists are at greater risk of injury in a deer crash. In 2025, 223 of the deer crashes involved a motorcycle, resulting in four fatalities and 80 serious injuries. This means 38% of motorcycle deer crash resulted in a fatality or serious injury, compared with less than 0.1% in auto or light truck deer crashes.

Some tips for drivers on dealing with deer —

— Deer can be seen any time of day, but they are most active in early morning and evening hours. Be sure to use headlights, especially at dusk and dawn.

— Deer movements can be unpredictable, so drivers should slow down and proceed with caution when approaching deer on and near the road. If a deer crosses the road, be prepared for others to follow.

— Be sure to buckle up and avoid distractions to stay safe on the road. Crash injuries are less severe or can be avoided when everyone wears a seat belt.

— If you cannot avoid hitting a deer with your vehicle, brake firmly and stay in your lane. Avoid sudden swerving, which can result in a loss of control and a more serious crash.

— For motorcycles, if you cannot avoid hitting a deer and there is enough space to swerve around it without leaving your lane, brake and adjust course as needed.

What to do after a deer crash —

— Get your vehicle safely off the road as soon as possible.

— If someone is hurt or the deer is in the active portion of the road, call 911.

— If no one is hurt and your vehicle and the deer are off the road, report the crash or contact local law enforcement.

— Stay buckled up inside your vehicle and wait for help. Getting out of your vehicle and walking along a road is always dangerous.

— Never attempt to move an injured deer.

— For disposal of car-killed deer, call your county highway department or sheriff department non-emergency line.