Pennsylvania Crash Information Tool Reveals 2018 Local Deer-Related Crash Statistics

JEFFERSON CO., Pa. — Recent data from the Pennsylvania Crash Information Tool (PCIT) shows that in the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s (PennDOT) District 10, which comprises Armstrong, Butler, Clarion, Indiana, and Jefferson Counties, 412 motorists experienced a deer-related crash in 2018, mostly in the months of October and November.

The data breakdown per county is as follows:

  • Armstrong County data show 64 deer-related crashes in 2018, a 14 percent decrease from 2017. Most crashes occurred in November (12), October (10), and December (7).
  • Butler County data show 171 deer-related crashes in 2018, a 27 percent increase from 2017. Most crashes occurred in October (41), November (38), and December (19).
  • Clarion County data show 57 deer-related crashed in 2018, a 7 percent decrease from 2017. Most crashes occurred in November (17) and October (10).
  • Indiana County data show 61 deer-related crashes in 2018, a 5 percent increase from 2017. Most crashes occurred in October (16), November (8), August (7) and December (7).
  • Jefferson County data show 62 deer-related crashes in 2018, a 6 percent increase from 2017. Most crashes occurred in November (15) and October (12).

As the data suggest, fall marks the deer’s breeding season, and deer pay less attention and become bolder as they move around more and travel greater distances seeking mates. Other factors that affect the travel patterns of deer in the fall are farmers actively harvesting the last of their crops and preparing for spring planting, and increased activity in the woods from hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

By following a few safety tips, motorists and outdoor enthusiasts can help reduce the possibility of being involved in a crash with a deer. Remember to:

  • Slow down and use caution, particularly where “deer crossing” signs are posted, and increase following distance between vehicles;
  • Make young drivers aware of increased deer movement;
  • Be especially watchful during morning and evening hours when wildlife is most active;
  • Exercise caution when one deer crosses a roadway. Since deer often travel in small herds, one deer will usually be followed by others;
  • Always wear your seat belt;
  • Never drive impaired; and
  • Turn on your headlights if your wipers are on — it’s the law.

If a deer is struck by a vehicle, but not killed, drivers can report the incident to a Game Commission regional office (Armstong and Indiana counties, call the Southwest office; Butler, Clarion and Jefferson counties, call the Northwest office) or other local law-enforcement agency.

To report a dead deer for removal from state roads, motorists can call the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation at 1-800-FIX-ROAD.

From a variety of reports posted on the website, the public can use the PCIT to learn about traffic crashes, fatalities and injuries statewide and in specific counties or municipalities. The public can access commonly requested crash and fatality information as well as create their own custom searches.

Subscribe to PennDOT District 10 news at www.penndot.gov/District10.


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