State Representative Tom Weber (IL) | Representative Tom Weber (R) 64th District
State Representative Tom Weber (IL) | Representative Tom Weber (R) 64th District
Scenic drives in Illinois during autumn are popular, but the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources are urging drivers to stay alert for deer. As deer enter their peak mating season, particularly at dawn and dusk from now through December, caution is advised.
In 2023, there were 14,862 crashes involving deer in Illinois. Among these incidents, 14,192 resulted in property or vehicle damage, while 663 caused injuries. Seven crashes led to fatalities.
Although deer collisions can occur at any time, the period from October to December sees a higher frequency of such accidents. Last year, 41% of deer-related crashes occurred during these months, with November being the most hazardous. Rural areas accounted for 69% of these incidents, with 72% happening at twilight or nighttime.
To enhance safety during this season:
- Be vigilant in areas marked with deer crossing signs.
- Look for eye shine from headlights reflecting off deer's eyes on the roadside.
- Slow down upon spotting a deer and anticipate others may follow.
- Prepare for unexpected stops by deer on roads.
- If a collision is unavoidable, avoid swerving into traffic or off-road; instead try to glance your vehicle off the animal.
Drivers should remain cautious even in surprising environments where deer might appear unexpectedly.
The top ten counties in Illinois for deer-related crashes last year were Cook (598), Madison (396), Kane (384), Will (381), McHenry (344), Lake (341), La Salle (340), Sangamon (338), Fulton (300), and Peoria (286).
“Be extra vigilant on Illinois highways this time of year, especially at dawn and dusk when deer are particularly active for the fall mating season,” said Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. “Deer are a part of the Illinois landscape, and drivers should always be mindful of their presence to minimize the risk of accidents.”
If involved in a collision with a deer, it is advised to pull over safely to the shoulder, activate hazard lights and call 911 without exiting the vehicle to check on an injured animal.
For more information on claiming a deer involved in a crash or reporting possession of one killed in such an incident, visit the IDNR website.
This information was provided by IDOT and IDNR.
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