Deer Activity Increasing, PennDOT Cautions Motorists

HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 8 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Autumn brings an increase
in deer activity, prompting PennDOT to remind drivers to watch carefully for
deer darting across and along roadways.

"Deer movement increases during the fall breeding season, making it all the
more important for motorists to drive defensively and stay alert, especially
at dawn and dusk, to reduce the risk of striking a deer," said PennDOT
Secretary Allen D. Biehler, P.E. "Motorists also need to be aware of hunters
and others walking along roadways on their way into or out of the woods."

Deer pay less attention and become bolder as they move around more and travel
greater distances during their breeding season. Primarily nocturnal feeders,
deer are most active between sunset and sunrise.

Over the past five years, PennDOT statistics show nearly 46 percent of all
reportable crashes involving a deer occurred in the months of October and
November. More than 78 percent of the total crashes in the past five years
involving deer occurred between the hours of 5 p.m. and 6 a.m. Last year,
there were 2,797 crashes statewide involving deer, resulting in 636 injuries
and 11 fatalities.

By following a few safety tips, motorists and outdoor enthusiasts can help
reduce the possibility of being involved in a crash with a deer. Remember to:

-- Be on the alert for individuals entering the woods early in the
morning
and leaving in the late evening hours;
-- Pull vehicles as far off of the roadway as possible and remember that
parking along limited access highways is prohibited except for
emergencies;
-- Seek permission before parking on private property;
-- Wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight or a glow stick to
help
increase your visibility;
-- Make young drivers aware of increased deer movement;
-- Slow down and use caution, particularly where deer crossing signs are
posted and increase following distance between vehicles;
-- Be especially watchful during morning and evening hours when wildlife
is
most active;
-- Exercise caution when one deer crosses a roadway. Since deer often
travel in small herds, one deer will usually be followed by others;
-- Always wear your seat belt;
-- Never drink and drive; and

-- Turn on your headlights if your wipers are on -- it's the law.

If a dead deer presents an obvious safety hazard on state roadways, motorists
can call 1-800-FIX-ROAD to have the deer removed.

PennDOT also reminds motorists they can visit to 511pa.com or call 511 from
any phone to check traffic conditions before heading out.

For more fall driving tips and other highway safety information, visit
www.DriveSafePA.org.

Media contact: Craig Yetter, 717-705-1092

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

Craig Yetter of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation,
+1-717-705-1092