With rut approaching, drivers reminded to watch for deer on Wisconsin roads

WISCONSIN – As Wisconsin approaches the time of year when most deer crashes occur, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Division of State Patrol is reminding drivers to stay alert behind the wheel.

In a release, WisDOT explained that more deer are on the move during their annual fall rut, or mating season, creating a greater risk for crashes.

Last year, there were 17,793 crashes involving deer in Wisconsin, resulting in six fatalities and 720 injuries. Forty-two percent of those crashes occurred from October through December, according to WisDOT. November saw the highest number with 3,389 deer crashes in just one month.

“Anyone driving through Wisconsin should be on the lookout for deer, especially in the fall,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “Deer alongside the road can suddenly dart into traffic, and the shorter days can make them harder to spot. Be sure you’re scanning the road ahead and are prepared to respond if you encounter deer.”

How to avoid hitting a deer

WisDOT noted that deer can be seen any time of day, but they are most active in early morning and evening hours.

“Be sure to use your headlights, especially at dusk and dawn,” WisDOT stated. “Deer movements can be unpredictable, so drivers should slow down and proceed with caution when approaching deer on and near the road. If a deer crosses the road, be prepared for others to follow.”

Deer are unpredictable and may suddenly freeze or change directions, WisDOT said, encouraging motorists to drive at a safe speed, eliminate distractions and make sure everyone is buckled up. Crash injuries are less severe or can be avoided when everyone wears a seat belt, WisDOT added.

“If you cannot avoid hitting a deer with your vehicle, brake firmly and stay in your lane,” WisDOT stated. “Avoid sudden swerving, which can cause you to lose control and result in a more serious crash.”

Motorcyclists are at greater risk of injury in a deer crash. In 2025, 223 deer crashes involved a motorcycle, resulting in four fatalities and 80 serious injuries.

“This means 38% of motorcycle deer crashes resulted in a fatality or serious injury, compared to less than 0.1% in auto or light truck deer crashes,” WisDOT said. “If you encounter deer on your motorcycle, use controlled, straight-line braking to slow as much as you are able. If impact is imminent, execute a controlled swerve only if you can safely remain in your lane.”

What to do after a deer crash

WisDOT provided the following steps to take after a deer crash:

• If you hit a deer, get your vehicle safely off the road as soon as possible.
• If someone is hurt or the deer is in the active portion of the road, call 911.
• If no one is hurt and your vehicle and the deer are off the road, report the crash or contact local law enforcement.
• Stay buckled up inside your vehicle and wait for help. Getting out of your vehicle and walking along a road is always dangerous.
• Never attempt to move an injured deer.
• For disposal of car-killed deer, call your county highway department or sheriff department non-emergency line.

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