Deer Mating Season Creates Highway Danger in Oklahoma
- mike33692
- 4 days ago
- 1 min read
Deer Mating Season Raising Travel Risk
It’s Deer mating season. However, this particular part of the year dramatically shifts wildlife movement patterns.
That means deer that normally stay grazing near ditches and tree lines are now far more likely to cross highways during the dark hours. Additionally, transportation safety analysts say movement spikes especially during overnight rural travel windows.
Drivers Should Slow Down, Especially Near Wooded Areas
Turnpike Authority Director Joe Echelle advises drivers to be especially careful near wooded areas. Additionally, he recommends using high-beams when possible to increase early visual detection and avoid sudden brake reaction crashes.
Vehicle vs wildlife incidents rise sharply between November and late December each year. Therefore, OHP and rural sheriff divisions say collisions this time of year remain statistically predictable and preventable with slower speeds and higher situational awareness.
Deer travel in patterns and rarely alone. Additionally, when drivers see one deer cross — multiple usually follow within seconds.
Insurance claims from wildlife impact collisions rise strongest in eastern and northeastern Oklahoma where tree density is highest. Therefore, state officials urge drivers not just to slow down but to expect sudden animal movement in known migration corridors.
Experts emphasize that drivers should NOT swerve into oncoming lanes or shoulders — just brake and hold lane stability. Additionally, wildlife specialists say population growth cycles could make this season even more active than the last two years.
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