PennDOT reminds drivers to watch for deer on roadways

Fall is here, and that means more deer will be on roadways in the Mahoning and Shenango Valleys. That's why the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is reminding drivers to stay alert for deer.

According to a press release, the number of deer-related crashes in Pennsylvania has been rising since 2020, with 2024 setting a five-year high of 6,426 deer-related crashes.

Locally, Mercer County saw a five-year total of 538 deer-related crashes, with 104 of those resulting in injuries and three resulting in fatalities.

2023 and 2024 saw the highest amount of crashes per year in Mercer County, with 122 crashes reported in both years. Two of those were fatal in 2023, and one was fatal in 2024.

Mike Tautin, a community traffic safety project coordinator with the Highway Safety Network, says drivers can't control a deer's movement, but they can control their actions behind the wheel to avoid a crash.

"Start by eliminating all potential distractions. Set your music and GPS before you leave and always keep your eyes on the road so you can react to the unexpected, which can oftentimes be a deer or another animal crossing in front of you," Tautin said.

PennDOT offered even more tips to avoid deer-related crashes:

- Slow down and stay alert, especially in areas where deer crossing signs are posted

- Increase your following distance between vehicles

- Make new drivers aware of deer movement and common crossing spots

- Exercise caution when one deer crosses the roadway and be on the lookout for any more that could be coming behind it

- Always wear your seatbelt to protect yourself from serious injuries or death if you are involved in a deer-related crash

- Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol

- Turn on your headlights while using your wipers to maximize visibility

If you are involved in a deer-related crash, assess the situation to determine if contacting local authorities is necessary.

Trooper Todd Bingman with the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) said in the release that deer-related crashes often go unreported because the vehicle only sustains minor damage, or there are no injuries.

However, drivers are required to contact police if the vehicle is severely damaged enough that it cannot be driven from the scene, or if there are any injuries or deaths.