The deer mating season has begun :: WRAL.com

The arrival of colder weather means deer mating season, so AAA is warning drivers to use caution.

According to AAA, most animal accidents occur in October, November and December. It is also darker earlier in the evening when daylight saving time ends in the first week of November.

“It’s mating season around this time, so deer are much more active,” said Tiffany Wright of AAA. “The risk of animals running onto the road is greater, further increasing the risk of a potential fatal collision.”

The North Carolina Department of Transportation reports that animals are involved in 7% of accidents in the state. Between 2018 and 2020, animal accidents in the state resulted in 719 injuries and three deaths.

According to AAA, deer are most active between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. and again between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.

AAA has provided the following safety tips for drivers:

• If you see a deer, slow down and watch out for other deer that may be following them.
• When slowing down, honk your horn to scare the animal.
• Brake hard and don’t swerve.

In the event of a collision, AAA says:

• If possible, immediately move your vehicle to a safe location away from the road. Your safety and the safety of your passengers is the most important thing.
• Once you are in a safe place and no longer driving, call the police.
• Turn on your vehicle’s hazard warning lights.
• Avoid contact with deer/animals. A scared or injured animal can hurt you or cause further injury.
• Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report any damage to your vehicle.
• Take photos of the damage if you can do so safely and without stepping onto the road.

Deer-related accidents Should be reported to NCDOT. To report an injured deer, call 800-662-7137.