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KANSAS DEER-VEHICLE COLLISIONS
PEAK IN NOVEMBER
2005 stats reveal lowest number since 1995
October 26, 2006 - PRATT -- In Kansas, deer-vehicle
accidents are common in November. Kansas Department of Transportation
(KDOT) statistics show that November is the month when the highest
number of deer-vehicle collisions occur. Motorists are encouraged
to be on particularly high alert about Nov. 17 -- historically
the day deer-vehicle collisions peak. One of the main reasons
there is a greater potential for deer-vehicle accidents in November
is the deer mating season. Deer are particularly active in the
fall, with the peak mating season, called "rut," occurring
in mid-November.
In addition, deer tend to widen their forage range
as they build up fat reserves for the winter. They often migrate
from one forage range to another during the early winter, exposing
themselves on highways. A reduction in daylight hours also contributes
to increased deer-vehicle collisions because deer are largely
nocturnal.
In 2005, there were 8,819 deer-vehicle collisions
in Kansas, the lowest number since 1995. Numbers of deer permits
issued by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is credited
with much of the decline. Deer-vehicle collisions occurred in
every Kansas county. Counties with the highest populations recorded
the most deer-vehicle accidents. Johnson County had the most
accidents with 369, followed by Sedgwick County with 322 and
Leavenworth County with 302.
Motorists should observe the following tips to
avoid deer collisions: be especially watchful at dawn and dusk
when deer are particularly active; deer seldom travel alone,
so if one deer crosses a road, there may be others nearby; reduce
speed and be alert near wooded areas or green spaces such as
parks or golf courses and near water sources such as streams
or ponds; don't swerve to avoid a collision with a deer. The
most serious accidents occur when motorists are taking evasive
action; watch out for deer crossing signs and always wear a seat
belt; and use bright lights and slow down whenever deer are spotted.
For more information, phone the Kansas Department
of Transportation toll-free at 1-877-550-5368.
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