By Blake Jackson
With deer activity on the rise and daylight-saving time soon to bring more vehicles onto the road during peak movement hours, the Pennsylvania Game Commission is urging drivers to stay alert and cautious this season.
As autumn progresses, deer become more active due to the fall breeding season, commonly known as the “rut.” During this time, yearling bucks often leave their birth areas in search of new territory, while adult bucks roam their home ranges seeking does and may chase them across roads.
When daylight-saving time ends on November 2, increased traffic during dawn and dusk the times when deer are most active raises the likelihood of vehicle collisions.
“The months of October, November, and December are when deer are moving around the most, and for longer durations during the day,” said Game Commission Executive Director Steve Smith. “We encourage all drivers to practice safe behaviors and be especially mindful of intensified deer movement at this time of year.”
According to national data, Pennsylvania consistently ranks among the top states for vehicle collisions involving deer or other large animals. A recent report showed that Pennsylvania once again led the nation in animal-collision insurance claims for fiscal year 2024-25, with drivers having a 1-in-62 chance of hitting a large animal more than double the national average of 1-in-139.
Motorists can lower their risk by staying alert, especially in areas marked with “Deer Crossing” signs and remembering that deer often travel in groups. If one crosses safely, another may follow closely behind.
Drivers who strike a deer are not required to report the incident, but Pennsylvania residents may claim the carcass by calling the Game Commission at 1-833-PGC-HUNT or 1-833-PGC-WILD within 24 hours.
Those claiming road-killed deer must also follow Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) regulations, which restrict the movement of high-risk parts like the head and spine from affected areas.
If an injured deer remains on the road, drivers should keep their distance and contact the Game Commission or law enforcement for assistance.
Photo Credit: pexels-jim-fawns
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy, Rural Lifestyle