Drive Carefully, South Brunswick: It's Rutting Season!

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — South Brunswick Police Chief Raymond Hayducka and the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife remind motorists to use extra caution as deer activity and darkness arrives earlier in the coming weeks.

“Since September 15 there have been 42 crashes involving deer on roadways in South Brunswick Township," said the police chief. "Drivers need to use extra caution especially at dusk and dawn for deer activity.”

White-tailed deer become more active during mating season, also known as the fall rut. Deer are more likely apt to suddenly run onto roadways during this time of year. Increased deer activity is more likely to occur in the very early morning and around sunset, when visibility may be difficult.

Here are the top three roads and areas for deer crashes in South Brunswick this fall:

1. Route 1 between Beekman Road and Promenade Boulevard
2. Beekman Road between Route 1 and Route 27
3. Route 522 between Ridge Road and Stouts Lane

Being extra vigilant for deer will become even more important when daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 3.

Most commutes will then align with the periods when deer are most active, and lighting conditions may be the most difficult for driving. Reduced lighting and sun glare can make it very difficult for drivers to see deer that are about to cross the road. In addition, multiple deer may cross the road at any moment, usually in single file.

Peak crashes involving deer in New Jersey occur from late October throughout November and into mid-December in all areas of the state.

These tips can help drivers stay safe during the fall rut:
• If you see a deer, slow down and watch for possible sudden movement. If the deer is in the road and doesn’t move, wait for the deer to pass and the road is clear. Do not try to maneuver around the deer.
• Pay attention to “Deer Crossing” signs. Slow down when traveling through areas known to have a high concentration of deer so you have enough time to stop, if necessary.
• When traveling after dark, use high beams if there is no oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead. High beams will be reflected by the eyes of deer on or near roads. If you see one deer, assume that others may be in the area.
• Don’t tailgate. The driver in front of you might have to stop suddenly to avoid hitting a deer.
• Always wear a seatbelt, as required by law. Drive at a safe and sensible speed, factoring for weather, available lighting, traffic, curves and other road conditions.
• If a collision appears inevitable, do not swerve to avoid impact. The deer may counter-maneuver suddenly. Brake appropriately and stay in your lane. Collisions are more likely to become fatal when a driver swerves to avoid a deer and instead collides with oncoming traffic or a fixed structure along the road.
• Report any deer-vehicle collision to a local law enforcement agency immediately.
• Obey the state’s hands-free device law or refrain from using cellular devices while driving.

To report a deer carcass on an interstate or state highway, call 1-800-POTHOLE (1-800-768-4653) or go the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s website and fill out an online form.