It’s that time of year when the air gets cooler, the days get shorter, and, more than ever, you need to watch out for deer. Whether you’re heading to work early in the morning or driving home at dusk, deer are on the move, and the odds of seeing them are higher than at any other time of year. In 2023, Mississippi reported over 4,300 deer-related crashes, an 8.1% increase from the year before. Already, we’ve had over 2,000 accidents this year alone. It’s not just Mississippi either—across the United States, nearly two million crashes each year involve animals, with deer leading the list of culprits. Mississippi ranks eighth in the country for deer-related crashes, giving drivers here a 1-in-59 chance of hitting a deer.
So, why now? The fall season is a busy time for deer, thanks to mating season, hunting season, and the simple fact that the sun sets earlier, putting more of us on the road at dawn and dusk—prime time for deer activity. These animals are most unpredictable when they’re startled, and they’re especially likely to leap onto the road without warning. This can make for a pretty dangerous situation if you’re not paying attention. While it’s natural to want to swerve to avoid hitting a deer, experts at the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) recommend staying calm, braking firmly, and avoiding the instinct to veer off the road. Swerving can easily cause you to lose control and hit something far worse—like another car or a tree.
What’s surprising is how common it is to see deer in groups. Deer are herd animals, so if you see one, chances are more are nearby. You’ve got to stay extra alert for those deer that might linger in the area, especially around dawn and dusk. Over 50% of deer-related crashes occur between 5 p.m. and midnight, and around 20% happen in the early morning. These low-light hours are when it’s hardest to see deer, which is why using your high beams can be a game-changer—just as long as there’s no oncoming traffic. The reflection from a deer’s eyes can give you precious extra seconds to react.
But it’s not just rural roads where you have to watch out for deer. Deer-related crashes can happen anywhere, from highways to backroads. And with Mississippi being one of the top ten states for collisions with animals, it’s crucial to keep your seat belt fastened at all times. Studies have shown that seat belts can significantly reduce injuries in the event of an accident.
Adding to the mix, it’s also hunting season across the state. As hunters enter the woods, deer are more likely to cross roads while trying to evade them, making collisions even more frequent. Mississippi’s deer hunting season runs from October through January, which aligns perfectly with the peak season for deer-related crashes. For those driving in areas with active hunting, it’s essential to stay cautious.
If you do find yourself in a collision with a deer, remember not to panic. First, pull over to a safe area, turn on your hazard lights, and make sure everyone in your vehicle is okay. If the deer is injured or causing a traffic hazard, call the authorities, but don’t approach it—deer can be dangerous when injured. You’ll also need to report the accident to your insurance company, as many comprehensive insurance plans cover damages caused by deer.
As we move deeper into the fall, let’s keep these tips in mind and make sure we’re all doing our part to stay safe. Deer are beautiful animals, but they can be a serious hazard on the road. So, stay alert, slow down, and be prepared—especially in those early morning and evening hours. By driving smart and staying cautious, we can all work together to reduce the number of deer-related accidents and keep Mississippi’s roads safer this season.
