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Deer Collisions Surge With Autumn Time Change
29 Oct
Summary
- Accidents spike during fall rut and clock change.
- Dusk and dawn are peak times for deer-vehicle collisions.
- Full moon nights increase deer activity on roads.
The annual shift to standard time in autumn is linked to a significant increase in deer-vehicle collisions. Research indicates that this time change, coinciding with the deer rut, leads to more commuters driving during high-risk dusk hours. This results in a 72% surge in accidents during evening commutes.
Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, and driver visibility is poorest during these times. Accidents are eight times more frequent per hour at dusk than during daylight. Additionally, deer venture further from cover and onto roadways during brighter, full moon nights, increasing collision risks.
Throughout the year, autumn, especially the last weeks of October and early November, sees the highest number of deer-vehicle accidents. This period, known as the rut, is when deer are most active and seeking mates, further exacerbating the danger on roadways.
