Seasonal Deer Population Hike Increases Risk For Hoosier Drivers

Hoosiers can expect to see more deer on and around roadways for the next few weeks. State Police are advising drivers to stay alert to avoid collisions.

Indiana State Police Sgt. Curt Durnil says deer collisions happen more frequently this time of year because their populations are up due to migration and mating patterns.

Durnil says the phenomenon isn’t restricted to rural areas, and drivers should look out for deer even while driving down interstates or through cities.

“I’ve seen just as many out in the country where you would think you would see them as I do on [the Indiana University Bloomington] campus,” Durnil says.

Durnil also says that where there is one deer, more are likely to follow.

He says the best thing drivers can do is drive slow. And Durnil says to watch for an animal’s eyes, which will reflect oncoming headlights.

“We always talk about the deer in the headlight look, and we can see that from afar if our lights happen to shine their way,” Durnil says.

Durnil says drivers should also be cautious of debris like fallen leaves, especially following rain.