PRESS RELEASE
Every October and November, Troopers handle an increased number of vehicle collisions with deer in Western New York. Operators should use caution around dusk and dawn.
If you are operating a vehicle and a deer enters the roadway do NOT attempt to swerve. When an operator swerves to avoid a deer, the vehicle is more likely to strike another vehicle or exit the roadway striking trees or utility poles.
If you strike a deer, remain at the scene and call 911. An accident report can be completed by Troopers if your vehicle has over $1,000 in damage or if a person involved has been injured.
NYSP Troop A stats for car/deer collisions:
September 2017- 83 collisions
October 2017- 181 collisions
November 2017- 314 collisions
2017 total collisions- 1,412
August 2018- 60 collisions
September 2018- 103 collisions
October 2018- 130 collisions
2018 total up to October 24 – 1,023 collisions