As fall transitions into winter, deer activity across Minnesota peaks – and so does the risk of unexpected roadside encounters. Whether you're commuting to work or traveling across the region, a split-second encounter with a deer can turn dangerous in an instant. Protect yourself and fellow drivers this season using these simple tips to avoid deer crashes, along with steps to take if you hit one.
What to Do If You Hit a Deer
Call 911: Report the crash immediately if there are occupant injuries, your vehicle is disabled, your vehicle or the animal is blocking a lane of traffic, or the animal is injured and unable to run away. Law enforcement will be dispatched to assist.
Stay in your vehicle: Remain inside your vehicle with your seat belt fastened so you do not put yourself at risk of being struck by passing traffic.
Road-kill permits: Any Minnesota resident may claim a road-killed animal by contacting a law enforcement officer for a lawful possession permit.
Keep your distance: If a deer is struck but not killed, stay back. An injured or frightened animal could panic and cause serious injury.
Tips to Avoid Deer Crashes
Drive at safe speeds: Always maintain a safe speed, especially in high-risk zones.
Be extra alert during peak hours: Use extreme caution from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., when deer are most active.
Use high beams: Utilize high beams when possible at night to watch for eye reflections and silhouettes along the ditches and shoulders.
Do not swerve: Swerving to avoid a deer can cause drivers to lose control, run off the road or drift into oncoming traffic.
Adjust for high-population areas: Reduce speeds in areas known for large deer populations, such as where roads divide agricultural fields from forests, and when driving through forested areas between dusk and dawn.
Expect unpredictability: Deer are unpredictable. They may stop in the middle of the road, change direction or move toward an approaching vehicle. Blow your horn to urge them to leave the road.
Eliminate distractions: Put away all distractions while driving to remain fully aware of your surroundings.
Preventing a crash starts with simple habits: buckle up, stay focused – and always expect the unexpected. Together, we can drive Minnesota toward zero deaths.
