Overview
- Illinois officials released 2025 data showing 14,529 deer-related crashes last year and warned that most collisions cluster in October through December on rural roads at dusk or night.
- New Jersey’s Fish & Wildlife agency reiterated that peak deer movement runs from mid‑October into mid‑December and urged drivers to expect groups of deer near crossing signs.
- Agencies emphasize simple, proven steps to reduce crashes: slow down, scan roadsides for eye shine, use high beams when safe, do not swerve to avoid deer, and buckle seat belts.
- Daylight savings time on Nov. 1 will shift more driving into twilight hours when deer are most active, increasing the window of exposure for commuters and rural travelers.
- Research and insurance data show roughly 1.5 million U.S. deer-vehicle collisions a year, about 150 deaths, and more than $1 billion in vehicle damage, so timely driver behavior is the primary defense.