2002 Ohio Deer-Vehicle Crashes by County
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife
estimated Ohio’s deer population to be 681,000 in the fall
of 2002. There were 30,306 deer-vehicle crashes reported in Ohio
during 2002.
Deer crash facts
- Most Ohio deer-vehicle crashes occur between October and December,
followed by May.
- Fall is the height of Ohio’s deer breeding season (peaks
in November) when deer become more active. Deer movement increases
during this time.
- Vehicle damage is covered under the “other than collision”
portion of an auto insurance policy. According to the Insurance
Information Institute, US insurance claims for deer crashes averaged
$2,000/claim and totalled roughly $1 billion in 2003.
Precautionary tips for drivers
- Watch for deer-crossing signs and drive with extreme
caution, especially in the posted areas.
- If you see a deer near the road, expect that
others will follow.
- Watch for deer near roadways, especially at
dawn and after sunset. About 20% of these crashes occur in early
morning, while over half occur between 5 pm and midnight.
- After dark, use high-beams when there isn’t oncoming
traffic. These will illuminate deer eyes, allowing motorists
greater reaction time.
- Always wear safety belts, as required by law,
and drive at safe, sensible speeds for road conditions.
- Don’t swerve the vehicle to avoid striking a
deer. If the collision seems probable, then hit the deer
while maintaining full control of the vehicle.
Sources: Ohio Department of Public Safety, 2002 Ohio Traffic
Crash Facts and Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division
of Wildlife
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