COLUMBUS - As the weather turns colder, the Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to be on the lookout for deer that may lead to traffic crashes.

During October and November, the chances of seeing deer on or near our roads increase as the deer become more active and enter the peak of their breeding season. Deer-vehicle crashes decreased nearly 9 percent across the state in 2005, with nine fatalities and 941 injuries reported.

The five counties with the highest number of reported deer-vehicle collisions in 2005 were Hamilton (757), Richland (683), Summit (623), Knox (590) and Delaware (567). Those reporting the fewest such collisions were Monroe (27), followed by Carroll (90), Vinton (92), Hocking (94) and Pike (110) Counties.

Drivers are cautioned to be alert for deer especially at dawn and after sunset. Last year, 56 percent of deer-vehicle crashes occurred between 5 p.m. and 1 a.m., while over 22 percent occurred in the early morning hours between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m.

Please keep these tips in mind as you travel around the state this fall:

• If you see a deer in the road, expect more deer to be nearby. Deer commonly travel in groups, so the probability is high that other deer will be in front of or behind the one you’ve seen. Slow down and be alert;
• Don't swerve your vehicle to avoid striking a deer. If a collision with a deer seems probable then hit it while maintaining full control of your vehicle. The alternative could be even worse;
• Stay alert. Deer are always unpredictable. They often dart out into traffic on busy highways in metropolitan areas; and
• Report any deer-vehicle collisions to a local law enforcement agency, such as your local Patrol post within 24 hours.

In the event of a deer crash, get the vehicle as far off the road as possible, and if a cell phone is available, dial 1-877-7-PATROL for assistance. The call will be directed to the nearest Patrol post.

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