For release: October 25, 2004

2003 Ohio deer-vehicle collisions on rise
Emphasis remains on driver safety

Deer-vehicle accidents increased nearly 5 percent across the state in 2003, according to figures released by the Ohio Insurance Institute (OII), Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife and Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP).

State traffic figures show deer-vehicle collisions totaled 31,729 in 2003, up 4.7 percent from 30,306 in 2002. Seven fatalities and 989 injuries were reported in 2003 resulting from deer-vehicle collisions – a rise from the five fatalities and 898 injuries reported in 2002.

The five counties with the highest number of reported deer-vehicle collisions in 2003 were Hamilton (791), Richland (753), Muskingum (703), Summit (642) and Knox (612). The same counties also reported the highest number of such collisions in 2002 and 2001 (Ohio county deer-vehicle collision statistics).

Counties reporting the fewest such collisions are Monroe (36) followed by Champaign (56), Pike (119), Hocking (127) and Putnam (130) counties.

Nationally, Ohio ranks among the top states for the number of registered motor vehicles, licensed drivers and miles driven, reports the Ohio Insurance Institute. Each of these variables contributes to the number of deer-vehicle collisions. Last year, the number of registered vehicles in Ohio increased to nearly 12.1 million.

Most deer-vehicle collisions occur between October and December during the deer-breeding season. State wildlife biologists estimate Ohio's current deer population at 700,000, up slightly from its 2003 herd estimate of 681,000. State wildlife biologists report that statewide deer densities tend to be heavier in the east-central and southeast. However, populations can be very high in suburban areas.

Drivers are cautioned to be alert for deer on and near Ohio's roadways especially at dawn and after sunset. Last year, 53.2 percent of these accidents occurred between 5 p.m. and midnight, while over 20% occurred in the early morning hours (5 a.m.-7 a.m.). (Ohio deer-vehicle collisions by time and day).

Vehicle damage varies dramatically depending on the type of vehicle, its speed upon impact and what area of the vehicle is hit. According to OII, vehicle damage from these collisions averages about $2,000 per claim nationally. This amounts to about $63.5 million in losses in Ohio last year.

Most insurers cover these losses under the comprehensive ('other than collision') portion of an auto insurance policy, minus the deductible. OII officials note that insurers normally don't single out deer-vehicle collision losses in determining future premium adjustments. Such a collision alone should not affect future premiums.

Driving tips for motorists

• Drive with extreme caution, at or below the posted speed limit, in areas with deer-crossing signs.
• Most crashes occur in the months of 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. Don't rely solely on high beams to deter 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 always unpredictable. 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 State Highway Patrol) or a state wildlife officer within 24 hours.

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 ODNR Division of Wildlife has responsibility and regulatory authority to manage Ohio's fish and wildlife resources for the benefit of all Ohioans.

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Resources:

2003 Ohio county deer-vehicle collisions by month (statistics located on page 17 in this document)
2003 National deer-vehicle collision information

For Information:
Mitch Wilson/Mary Bonelli, Ohio Insurance Institute
614.228.1593

Lt. Rick Zwayer, Ohio State Highway Patrol
614.752.2792

Jane Beathard, ODNR Media Relations
614.265.6860