Interview: DEC Wildlife Biologist Steve Heerkens talks drivers safety as deer activity increases during fall season

The leaves have fallen across much of Central New York, the North Country and Western Adirondacks, meaning it's the time of year for deer to start being very active.

Car-deer collisions can occur any time of year, but the New York State DEC says the number and frequency tends to increase significantly around Halloween and through November.   

"New York's roadways are as beautiful as ever during the fall months, but it's also when deer and moose are more active so motorists must drive with extra caution to help avoid a collision," said Mark J.F. Schroeder, DMV Commissioner and Chair of the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee. "Watch for deer-crossing signs along roadways, as they indicate deer have been seen at that location and have collided with cars there. Those signs are meant to warn you to be extra cautious when driving through such locations."

"The fall season is a peak time for wildlife activity across New York, especially for deer and moose who can cross roadways and create the potential for an accident," said DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos. "Regardless of where you live, all motorists should keep an eye out and be aware that wildlife can cross their paths."

DEC Wildlife Biologist Steve Heerkens recently joined our North Country News and discussed several talking points for drivers to keep in mind amidst the autumn rut. Be sure to listen to our latest on-air segment here:

Motorists should be aware animals are especially active at dawn and dusk when visibility may be reduced and commuter traffic may be heavy. DEC recommends motorists take these precautions to reduce the chance of hitting a deer or moose:

Decrease speed when you approach deer near roadsides. Deer can "bolt" or change direction at the last minute;

If you see a deer go across the road, decrease speed and be careful. Deer often travel in groups, so expect other deer to follow;

Use emergency lights or a headlight signal to warn other drivers when deer are seen on or near the road;

Use caution on roadways marked with deer crossing signs; and

Use extreme caution when driving at dawn or dusk, when animal movement is at its highest and visibility is reduced.

If encountering an animal on the roadway, brake firmly but do not swerve. Swerving can cause a collision with another vehicle, a tree, a pole, or other objects. If an animal is hit, DEC advises motorists to stay away from the animal. A frightened, wounded deer or moose could use its powerful legs and sharp hooves to cause harm.

Other tips for if you strike or encounter an animal include:

Move your vehicle to a safe place. If possible, pull over to the side of the road, and turn on hazard lights. If leaving the vehicle, stay off the road and out of the way of any oncoming vehicles. If a collision occurs at dusk or dawn, please remember traffic visibility could be reduced.

Call the police. Alert authorities if the animal is blocking traffic and creating a threat for other drivers. If the collision results in injury, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage, you must fill out an official crash report and send it to DMV.

Don't assume your vehicle is safe to drive. Look for leaking fluid, loose parts, tire damage, broken lights, a hood that won't latch and other safety hazards. If your vehicle seems unsafe in any way, call for a tow truck.

Image courtesy via the New York State DEC.