For release:  October 18, 2001

USE CAUTION THIS AUTUMN: WATCH FOR DEER ON OHIO ROADWAYS

COLUMBUS, OH-With more than 28,000 motor vehicle collisions with deer expected to be reported statewide this year, the Ohio Insurance Institute (OII), Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), and Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) are urging motorists to drive with extra caution this fall.
"We're heading into prime season for deer-vehicle crashes. The potential for injury to motorists and damage to their vehicles is why we're banding together to increase driver awareness," said Colonel Kenneth L. Morckel, OSHP superintendent.

According to the ODNR's Division of Wildlife, most deer-vehicle collisions occur between October and December.

"Fall is the height of Ohio's deer breeding season which means there will be a dramatic increase in deer movement," said Vicki Mountz, spokesperson with ODNR's Division of Wildlife. "November is when the highest number of deer-vehicle collisions usually occur."

The OII, ODNR and OSHP caution drivers to be alert for deer on and near Ohio's roadways especially at dawn and after sunset. About 20 percent of these accidents occur in the early morning hours, while more than half happen between 5 p.m. and midnight.

"Although they're most active around dawn and dusk, deer are known to cross roadways throughout the year most any time of day," added Mountz.
ODNR's Division of Wildlife estimates the state's deer population at about 500,000 this fall. There were 26,898 deer-vehicle collisions reported in 2000, compared to 27,425 such collisions in 1999.

The OII reports the Buckeye state ranks among the top five nationally in the number of registered motor vehicles and miles driven on public roadways, and ranks sixth in the number of licensed drivers. Each of these may be contributing factors in the number of deer-vehicle collisions.

The five counties with the highest number of deer-vehicle collisions in 2000 were Hamilton, Richland, Summit, Muskingum, and Knox counties.
Monroe County had the fewest deer-vehicle collisions in 2000, followed by Van Wert, Putnam, Henry and Paulding counties.

Ohio's seven largest metropolitan counties (Cuyahoga, Franklin, Hamilton, Lucas, Mahoning, Montgomery and Summit) experienced a combined decrease of nine percent from 3,456 deer-vehicle collisions reported in 1999 to 3,147 reported last year. Overall, 2000 deer-vehicle collisions declined in 44 counties and increased in 44 counties. (Note: 1999-2000 Ohio county statistics obtained by clicking here)

Vehicle damage varies dramatically depending on the type of vehicle, its speed upon impact and where the vehicle is hit. According to the Insurance Information Institute, vehicle damage from these collisions averages about $2,000 per claim nationally. This equates to nearly $53.8 million in damages in Ohio last year.

"Most insurers cover these losses under the comprehensive ('other than collision') portion of an auto insurance policy, less the deductible," said Daniel J. Kelso, OII president.

Kelso added that typically insurers don't single out deer-vehicle collision losses in determining future premium adjustments. Such a collision alone should not affect future premiums.

Precautions for motorists

The OII, ODNR, and OSHP offer the following information and precautionary measures for motorists:

• Drive with extreme caution, at or below the posted speed limit, in areas with deer-crossing signs.
• Most crashes occur October through December, followed by May. Highest-risk periods are from sunset to midnight followed by the hours shortly before and after sunrise.
• If you see one deer on or near a roadway, expect that others may follow. Slow down and be alert.
• After dark, use high-beams when there is no opposing traffic. The high beams will illuminate the eyes of deer on or near a roadway and provide greater motorist reaction time. But don't rely solely on high-beams or deer whistles to deter such collisions.
• Always wear a seat belt as required by state law and drive at a safe, sensible speed for conditions.
• Don't swerve your vehicle to avoid striking a deer. If a collision with a deer seems probable, then hit it while maintaining full control of your vehicle. The alternative could be even worse.
• Stay alert. Deer are often unpredictable, especially when faced with glaring headlights, blowing horns and fast-moving vehicles. They often dart out into traffic on busy highways in metropolitan areas.
• Report any deer-vehicle collisions to a local law enforcement agency (such as the Ohio Highway Patrol) or a state wildlife officer within 24 hours.

Under Ohio law, the driver of a vehicle that strikes and kills a deer may take possession of it by first obtaining a deer possession receipt. These are available from law enforcement or state wildlife officers, and from local Division of Wildlife district offices.

The Ohio Insurance Institute is a trade association representing insurance companies and agent groups for the property/casualty industry. Its main objective is to increase understanding of insurance and related safety issues. The Division of Wildlife is part of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. The agency has responsibility and regulatory authority to manage Ohio's fish and wildlife resources for the benefit of all Ohioans.

Please note:
Deer b-roll footage can be obtained by contacting Mary or Mitch at 614-228-1593

1999-2000 Ohio County Statistics