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The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is warning drivers of deer crashes, which can occur any day of the year. In 2024, 39% of single-vehicle accidents in Kansas were caused by collisions with deer. According to KDOT, five people were killed and 674 were injured in deer accidents last year. With November being the peak time of deer breeding season, crashes increase from now until the end of the year.

KDOT, the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP), The Kanas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP), AAA, and the Kansas Turnpike are coming together to remind drivers to be cautious.

Officials offer these safety tips for drivers:

• Be watchful at dawn and dusk – deer are more active and they seldom travel alone.
• Be alert and reduce speeds near wooded areas and near water sources.
• Vehicle-deer collisions can happen on any rural or urban roadway – the signs show areas where high numbers have occurred in the past.
• Do not swerve, this can cause motorists to veer into oncoming traffic, run off the road, hit objects or overturn.
• Use bright headlights when there is no oncoming traffic – the deer’s eyes often reflect.
• If possible, move the vehicle to the roadway’s shoulder after a collision and call law enforcement – KHP dispatch at *47, turnpike users at *KTA or local law enforcement at 911.
• Put the vehicle’s hazard lights on and keep your seat belt fastened.
• Contact your insurance company to report damage.

Those who have a collision with a deer or other animals that results in property damage or personal injury totaling over $1,000 are required to report the incident to the nearest law enforcement agency.