Madison Police Offer Tips for Motorists During Deer Breeding Season

MADISON, NJ — The Madison Police Department urges motorists to stay alert for white-tailed deer that unexpectedly run into the road during the fall breeding season. Accidents involving deer usually happen during morning and evening commutes, since visibility may be poor, police said.

Motorists should inform the Department of Transportation if they see a dead deer on the street or highway. County and municipal governments are in charge of removing deed deer from the roads they maintain.

Madison Police provide motorists with the following tips to stay safe during rutting season:

• Slow down when you see a deer and pay attention to possible sudden movement. If the deer doesn't move from the street, don't drive around it —wait for the deer to pass.
• If you see one deer, be alert. Deer normally move in family groups at this time of year.
• Watch out for "Deer Crossing" signs. Slow down when you travel through these areas, which are known to have a high concentration of deer.
• Use high beams when there's no oncoming traffic if you're driving after dark.
• Always wear a seatbelt, drive at a safe speed, and refrain from using your cell phone while driving. Take into consideration weather, available lighting, traffic, curves, and other road conditions.
• If a collision seems inevitable, don't swerve to avoid impact. Collisions are more likely to become fatal when a driver swerves and collides with oncoming traffic or a fixed structure in the road. Brake appropriately and stay in your lane.

Photo courtesy of USFWS Mountain-Prairie/Flickr