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Fall is the most dangerous time of year for deer-related crashes, AAA warns.
Deer-vehicle collisions peak between October and December during mating season, with more than 1.5 million crashes occurring annually, resulting in roughly $1 billion in vehicle damage and about 150 human fatalities, AAA advises. In fact, deaths from collisions with animals -- mostly deer -- increased from 89 in 1975 to 210 in 2024, according to AAA.
Drivers face the greatest risk at dawn and dusk, particularly on rural roads near wooded areas, waterways and farmland, AAA advises.
All of which the Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin have in abundance.
Lately, roadkill deer have shown up along Stephenson Avenue/U.S. 2 well into Iron Mountain, with the areas near Recreation Lanes and RiZE on the Northside and around the intersection with East H Street seeing particularly frequent crossings to graze on lawns and alongside parking lots.
AAA offered these tips on dealing with the hazard of deer while driving.
How to avoid hitting a deer --
-- Slow down in high-risk areas: Obey posted speed limits and reduce your speed in areas known for deer activity. Driving more slowly provides valuable reaction time if an animal suddenly enters the road.
-- Scan the road ahead: Continuously check both sides of the road, especially near wooded areas. At night, watch for the reflection of deer eyes in your headlights.
-- Use high beams when appropriate: When there is no oncoming traffic, high-beam headlights can improve visibility and help in spotting animals farther ahead.
-- Stay alert for multiple deer: A single deer crossing often means additional deer are nearby. Continue scanning roadside areas even after the first animal has crossed.
-- Don't rely on deer whistles or gadgets: Research has found little evidence that deer whistles, reflectors or similar devices effectively prevent collisions. Maintaining awareness and reducing speed remain the most effective preventive measures.
-- If a deer runs onto the road, don't veer: Your instinct may be to swerve, but this can be more dangerous than hitting the deer. Swerving can cause you to leave the roadway; strike a tree, guardrail or utility pole; enter oncoming traffic or lose control of the vehicle. Many serious injuries occur because drivers overcorrect or leave their lane while attempting to avoid an animal.
If a collision is unavoidable, brake firmly, maintain control of the steering wheel, stay in your lane and bring the vehicle to a controlled stop. This approach typically results in less severe outcomes than sudden swerving maneuvers, AAA advises.
After a deer collision, safety should be the top priority. Once the vehicle has been brought to a safe stop, take these steps to protect yourself, report the incident and begin the insurance claims process --
-- Move to a safe location: If the vehicle is drivable, pull safely off the road and activate the hazard lights.
-- Don't approach the deer: A deer that isn't moving might be unconscious and could awaken at any moment, and an injured deer could kick, charge or thrash unpredictably. Do not attempt to move the animal yourself.
-- Contact authorities: Call local law enforcement to report the collision, especially if the animal is blocking traffic or there are injuries. The police report could also be helpful in the insurance claim.
-- Document the damage: Take photos of vehicle damage, the surrounding area, any roadway hazards and the deer that was struck--without approaching it, AAA recommends. This documentation can help support the insurance claim.
-- Contact your insurance company: Damage caused by hitting a deer is typically covered under comprehensive auto insurance coverage. Check policy details for specific coverage information.