Now is the Most Important Time in Utah to Watch For Deer on the Road

If you have ever hit a deer driving down the road at night in Utah, you know how scary it can be. Nationally, 1.5 million deer and auto collisions happen every year resulting in a billion dollars in vehicle damage.

As the Snow Hits the Mountains Deer Move Down

With 30 million deer in the United States and the number of cars on the highways increasing, these statistics will continue to rise. November is the worst month for deer getting hit in Utah according to the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. 

"The peak time to hit deer in Utah is during November," Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Migration Initiative Coordinator Blair Stringham said. "It coincides with mating season and the annual migration of deer."

If you are traveling a highway at night, pay attention to the deer crossing signs. If you do see deer on the side of the road, blinking your lights will help the deer not to fixate on them.

Things Not To Do When You See a Deer

Braking too hard or cranking the steering wheel can be dangerous. Trying to avoid the deer by swerving off the road can often result in more damage. Always remain calm and keep your wits about you.

If you do see a deer carcass in the road that is a danger to vehicle traffic, a call to the highway patrol may be warranted. Otherwise, you can report a dead animal on the U-Dot mobile app. If the animal looks like it has been poached, contact DWR. 

Read More: Illegal in Utah to Install a Mammoth Horn on Your Vehicle

This holiday season think ahead and travel safely on Utah’s highways.