Why So Many Deer Are Being Hit on Indiana and Kentucky Roads Right Now

Why Are So Many Deer Being Hit on Indiana and Kentucky Roads Right Now?

Yesterday, we were driving down I-64, and the number of deer that lined the side of the road was just crazy. My friend Matt, who was driving, asked me, "What's up with all the dead deer?"

Earlier that day, I saw an article explaining why deer are being hit at record numbers right now, so I had a quick answer for him. This morning, while driving, I saw a number of them on I-69, too.

The worst part is that in many cases, it's preventable.

Why Are Deer Accidents Increasing Right Now?

The Time Change

The Earth's axis never stops changing, but for most of the year, when folks leave work, it's not already dark out. From November to January, especially after the clocks change at the end of Daylight Saving Time, the roads are super busy from 4-6 p.m.

When it gets dark earlier, it's harder to see them crossing the road.

black analog alarm clock between two tree trunks

Deer Mating Season Is Another Reason for More Accidents

To make matters worse, it's deer mating or rutting season.

Males are experiencing high testosterone levels, which leads to aggression and territorial behaviors. Males also actively pursue females that are in heat.

Because of mating season, deer are naturally on the move quite a bit more this time of year and will cross roadways.

According to Environment America, "In the week following the end of daylight saving time, deer-vehicle collisions increase by around 16%, part of a general increase in animal-vehicle collisions as animals are in rut and more likely to dash across roads, daylight hours are shortened and the clocks change."

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brown deer on brown soil

Could Keeping Daylight Saving Time Year-Round Help Prevent Deer Accidents?

Earlier this year, a bill called the Sunshine Protection Act gained political momentum, even with support from the president, and aimed to keep Daylight Saving Time year-round.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill (308-117). But the bill has stalled in the U.S. Senate and awaits a vote. Just this week, though, President Trump has called on the Senate to pass the Sunshine Act. 

If this bill ends up passing and becoming law, it could potentially cut down on some of the deer collisions. If roadways are at their busiest an hour later, there would be fewer deer collisions.
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How Many Deer-Vehicle Collisions Happen Each Year?

According to an article by CBS, a research group estimated that there are 2.1 million deer-vehicle collisions in the U.S. each year, which lead to 440 human deaths and 59,000 injuries.

These collisions cost around $10 billion each year. Yes, BILLION.

Oh, and they also pointed out that the problem is growing. Habitats are shrinking, more roads are being built, which leads to more deer crossings and more collisions.

There isn't much you can do except keep your eyes peeled, check the sides of the road frequently, and just go a little slower if you can.