DEP, NJDOT Warn Motorists to Drive with Extra Caution as Deer Activity Increases, Daylight Decreases Due to Earlier Twilight
TRENTON – Drivers are reminded to be extra vigilant on roadways this fall as the mating season for white-tailed deer gets underway and daylight is limited during peak commuting hours, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) announced today.
Deer are more likely to suddenly enter roadways at this time of year, also known as the fall rut, as bucks pursue does, increasing the risk for drivers to stop suddenly or be involved in collisions. Deer activity is more likely to occur during early morning hours and around sunset, when visibility may be limited and more motorists are on their work commutes.
“Deer are involved in thousands of collisions with motor vehicles in New Jersey every year, most of which occur during the fall mating season,” New Jersey Fish & Wildlife Assistant Commissioner David Golden said. “We urge all drivers to be especially alert to the possibility of deer suddenly darting onto roadways, as well as know how to reduce the risk of a collision and possible serious injury to themselves, their passengers or others.”
Peak mating season for deer in New Jersey runs from late October to mid-December.
Awareness will become even more important when daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 6. This means that many commutes will then align with the time when deer are most active, and lighting conditions may be the most difficult for driving. Reduced lighting as well as sun glare can make it very difficult for drivers to see deer that are about to cross the road.
These tips can help drivers stay safe during peak periods of the annual fall rut:
For general information about white-tailed deer in New Jersey, visit https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/wildlife/white-tailed-deer/
For information about white-tailed deer seasons and regulations, visit https://dep.nj.gov/njfw/hunting/deer-season-and-regulations/
Like NJ Fish & Wildlife’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NewJerseyFishandWildlife
Follow NJ Fish & Wildlife on Instagram @newjerseyfishandwildlife
Follow DEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette on Twitter and Instagram @shawnlatur and follow the DEP on Twitter @NewJerseyDEP
Drivers are encouraged to check the NJDOT’s traffic information website www.511nj.org for real-time travel information.
For NJDOT news, follow the Department on Twitter @NewJerseyDOT or on the NJDOT Facebook page.
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