Watch for Wildlife: Deer and Moose Collisions Spike as Fall Drives Begin

Go Explore NY
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State Officials Urge Caution as Animal Activity Increases Across New York Roads

As the leaves change color and daylight fades earlier each evening, state officials are reminding drivers that fall isn’t just scenic—it’s also one of the most dangerous times of year for wildlife collisions.

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) are urging motorists to stay alert behind the wheel this season as deer and moose become more active, particularly from October through December.

“A chance encounter with a deer or moose is much more likely this time of year,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. “There are steps you can take to decrease your risk so you can get safely to your destination.”

DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton echoed the warning, noting that deer and moose are most active at dusk and dawn, when visibility is low. “Motorists should be especially cautious during these times and follow all important safety tips to avoid an accidental encounter with wildlife while driving,” she said.

Crash Numbers Spike in Fall Months

According to the University at Albany’s Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research, there were 32,287 deer-related crashes statewide last year and 7,616 collisions involving other animals.Those numbers surge in late fall—5,854 deer crashes were recorded in November 2024 alone, the highest of any month.

The counties with the highest number of deer crashes in 2024 included:

Monroe County – 1,431 crashes
Orange County – 1,366 crashes
St. Lawrence County – 1,266 crashes
Jefferson County – 1,224 crashes
Ontario County – 1,174 crashes
Erie County – 1,001 crashes

Why Fall Is the Riskiest Time

Fall marks the breeding season for both deer and moose, causing them to move more frequently and unpredictably across roadways. Their darker coloring also makes them harder to spot at night—especially moose, whose height often places them above the reach of vehicle headlights.

New York is home to an estimated 1.1 to 1.3 million white-tailed deer and about 700 moose, most of which reside in the Adirondack region.

Safety Tips for Drivers

To stay safe this season, officials recommend the following:

Slow down when deer are near the roadside; they can change direction suddenly.
Expect company—if one deer crosses, others are likely nearby.
Use headlights to alert other drivers when wildlife is present.
Honk your horn to scare animals away from the road.
Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk when visibility is low.
Never swerve to avoid an animal—brake firmly and stay in your lane.
Stay clear of injured animals; they may kick or charge if frightened.

If you do strike a deer or moose:

Pull over safely and turn on hazard lights.
Call police if the animal blocks traffic or creates a hazard.
File an official crash report if injuries occur or damage exceeds $1,000.
Inspect your vehicle before driving away—if in doubt, call for a tow.

As Commissioner Schroeder put it, “Slowing down and staying alert could mean the difference between a close call and a serious crash.”

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