5,854 deer struck on New York roads in November
The NYS DMV reports that deer-related crashes peak in the final three months of the year, with November recording the highest number of incidents.
By Riya Zhao ·
New York drivers face a heightened risk of colliding with deer as the state enters its peak rutting season. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles recorded 32,287 deer-related crashes across the state in 2024. These accidents are not evenly distributed throughout the year. The data shows a sharp increase in activity during the final quarter, specifically in October, November, and December.
November recorded the highest volume of deer strikes in 2024. State records indicate that 5,854 deer were hit during that single month. October followed with 4,050 collisions, while December saw 3,624. The surge in accidents aligns with the biological mating period for deer. Shorter daylight hours trigger hormonal changes in the animals. Bucks experience increased testosterone, and does become fertile. This physiological shift drives deer to move more frequently across roads to find mates.
Most of these crashes occur during low-light conditions. Drivers often encounter deer at dusk or dawn. These times coincide with peak commute hours for work and school. The dim lighting makes it difficult for both drivers and animals to see each other. The combination of increased animal movement and reduced visibility creates a dangerous environment on New York roadways.
Sara Neil, 31, of Lake Grove, experienced this danger in late October 2019. She was driving on Nicolls Road, near Stony Brook University, around 9 p.m. Neil saw one deer running across the lane. She swerved to avoid the first animal but collided with a second deer that was nearby. Her vehicle sustained enough damage to remain in a repair shop for approximately one month. Neil emerged from the accident without physical injury, but the deer she struck did not survive.
Neil noted that she had no clear guidance on how to handle the situation at the time. She admitted to yelling at deer she sees on the roadside to stay away. Experts recommend a different approach for drivers who spot a deer. The primary advice is to slow down and brake firmly rather than swerving. Swerving can cause the deer to panic and run toward the vehicle. It can also lead to a loss of control, resulting in a roadside crash. If a driver sees a deer on the side of the road or behind a fence, slowing down is the safest option.
Drivers should also use their horns to discourage deer from entering the roadway. Headlights can be counterproductive if used continuously. Bright, constant light often causes deer to freeze. Flashing the lights is a better strategy. This allows the animal time to recover and move away. Casey Berry, a police officer with the COPE Division of the Suffolk County Police Department, said that drivers should generally stay away from the animal after a crash. If the vehicle is drivable, it should be moved to the side of the road and hazard lights should be activated.
Drivers must call authorities and report the location of the animal. They should also alert officials if the deer poses a threat to other motorists. Berry explained that police often coordinate with local town officials to handle the remains of the animal. If the deer is still alive but injured, emergency services units may be contacted to assist. Drivers are advised to check for safety hazards before deciding to drive the vehicle. A towing service is recommended for vehicles with significant damage.
Neil recalled calling the police for an insurance report after her 2019 crash. The responding officer arrived from a different deer collision. He then proceeded to a third incident. The night was marked by a high frequency of accidents. The DMV data confirms that the final three months of the year present the greatest risk for vehicle and wildlife interaction in New York.
