With autumn underway, deer are on the move and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and its safety partners are reminding drivers to be alert for deer crossing area roadways.

The number of deer-related crashes in Pennsylvania has been on the rise since 2020, with last year’s total of 6,426 setting a five-year high, according to PennDOT data. The trend was the same in PennDOT’s northwest region – Crawford, Erie, Forest, Mercer, Venango, and Warren counties – with 566 deer-related crashes reported last year, the highest mark since 2020.

PennDOT notes over five years, there have been 221 crashes with 54 injuries.

“While we can’t control deer movement, we can control our actions behind the wheel and put ourselves in the best position possible to avoid these types of crashes,” said Mike Tautin, a Community Traffic Safety Project Coordinator with the Highway Safety Network. “Start by eliminating all potential distractions. Set your music and GPS before you leave and always keep your eyes on the road so you can react to the unexpected, which can oftentimes be a deer or other animal crossing in front of you.”

Deer tend to travel in small herds and are most active between sunset and sunrise as they look for food. Drivers should be extra cautious during morning and evening commute times.

PennDOT recommends the following safety tips to help prevent deer-related crashes:

— Slow down and be alert, especially where deer crossing signs are posted.

— Increase the following distance between vehicles.

— Make new drivers aware of increased deer movement and common crossing spots.

— Exercise caution when one deer crosses the roadway and be on the lookout for more that could be coming behind it.

— Always wear your seat belt. It is your best protection against death or serious injury if you are involved in a crash.

— Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

— Turn your headlights on whenever using your wipers to maximize visibility.

If a motorist is involved in a deer-related crash, they should assess the situation to determine whether or not they need to contact local authorities.

“Deer-related crashes are frequently unreported because the vehicle only sustains minor damage and there are no injuries. However, drivers are required to contact the police if the vehicle is damaged severely enough where it cannot be driven from the scene or there is a death or injury to a person involved, said Trooper Todd Bingman, Community Services Officer with Troop E of the Pennsylvania State Police. “If there is ever a situation where a driver is unsure of what to do, never hesitate to dial 911 for help.”

Pennsylvanians can report a dead deer for removal from state-maintained roads by calling 1-800-FIX-ROAD or submitting feedback through the PennDOT Customer Care Center.

Find PennDOT news for the northwest region on X or Facebook.