Of New York's 65,000 annual deer-vehicle collisions, most occur during the months of October through December. According to the NY State Department of Transportation, most of these incidents occur in the two hours before sunrise and after sunset each day.

Precautions & Safety:

• Use caution when driving at dawn/dusk and scan roads and roadsides ahead.
  
  
• Reduce your speed at night and use high beams whenever possible.
  
  
• Deer often travel in pairs or groups (herds). If you spot one crossing the road, slow down and be alert as others may follow. You should also be aware that deer sometimes retrace their steps. They will cross the road, then cross back over in the same spot.
  
  
• Motorcyclists should be especially alert for deer as motorcycle-deer collisions have a higher fatality rate.
  
  
• If a deer does run in front of your vehicle, brake firmly but do not swerve. Swerving can cause a vehicle-vehicle collision or cause the vehicle to strike a pedestrian or other deadly fixed objects, such as a tree or utility pole.

• Check for injuries. Call 911. Life and health are more important than vehicle damage.
  
  
• Check your vehicle and make note/take photographs of any damage.
  
  
• Notify your agent, or call us at 800-234-6926 immediately. We can set up towing arrangements if needed.