Indiana State Police Issue Safety Tips as Deer Mating Season Peaks
by Austin Hanson
Posted: Oct 22, 2025 / 05:39 PM EDT
Updated: Oct 22, 2025 / 05:47 PM EDT
Increased Deer Activity Raises Risk of Vehicle Collisions in Indiana
INDIANAPOLIS — The annual deer rut is now under way in Indiana, a critical period when bucks and does are highly mobile, increasing the likelihood of wildlife-vehicle encounters on local roadways.
According to the Indiana State Police (ISP), last year saw over 17,000 traffic incidents involving deer across the state. These collisions resulted in 707 injuries and nine fatalities, highlighting the serious risks posed by deer-vehicle crashes.
Driving Safety Measures During Peak Deer Season
To help reduce these incidents during the peak rut season from October through December, ISP’s Putnamville Post has released a set of practical guidelines for motorists to minimize collision risks.
Drive Carefully at Dawn and Dusk
ISP notes that deer display crepuscular activity patterns, meaning they are most active during twilight hours. Drivers should be especially vigilant during these times, ensuring seat belts are fastened and ready to react quickly if a deer suddenly appears.
It’s important to remember that although dawn and dusk present the highest risk, deer can be encountered on roadways at any hour.
Respect Deer Crossing Signs
Deer crossing signs are strategically placed in known high-traffic wildlife corridors, particularly near forested areas that serve as critical habitat and travel routes for deer populations.
Motorists encountering these signs are advised to reduce speed and heighten observation, as deer are likely to be present or nearby.
Watch for Groups of Deer
White-tailed deer often move in cohorts, especially females with their offspring. If a driver sees one deer, additional individuals are usually close behind.
ISP recommends signaling danger to other motorists by flashing headlights and using the horn when deer are spotted on or near the roadway.
Use High-Beam Headlights When Safe
At night, utilizing high beams on roads without oncoming traffic can significantly improve visibility, allowing drivers to detect deer sooner and reduce collision risk.
Avoid Swerving to Prevent More Severe Crashes
ISP strongly advises against swerving to avoid striking a deer. Sudden lane changes can lead to collisions with other vehicles or losing control of the car, which often results in more serious accidents than deer impacts themselves.
Experts advise drivers to brake firmly and maintain their lane if a deer suddenly enters the roadway.
Wildlife Context from Deer Biology
This seasonal surge in deer movement aligns with the white-tailed deer’s reproductive cycle. During the rut, bucks increase their range to seek mates, while does may be more distracted and vulnerable, contributing to unpredictable road crossings.
Understanding these behavioral patterns complements public safety efforts by anticipating periods of elevated collision risk tied directly to deer biology.
Additional reporting and sources from: Indiana State Police release tips and tricks to avoid deer in the roadwayClose Modal
