Watch Out, Herndon Residents: It's Prime Time for Deer on the Roads

HERNDON, VA — It's the time of year for Christmas trees, mistletoe and holiday cheer, but it's also the time of year for something a lot less pleasant in the Herndon area: deer on the roadways. Fairfax County is warning drivers that December is prime time for deer-vehicle collisions.

The white-tailed deer in the Herndon area are in mating season, referred to as the "rut." It begins in October and continues through December, and it's when the animals are the most active in the area.

That means more vehicle collisions, with more than 50 percent of deer-caused accidents happening from October through December.

"Deer are especially active pre-dawn to mid-morning and dusk to early evening," Fairfax County says on its website. "These periods of activity correspond with the time when many of you are commuting to and from work or school. Fairfax County Police urge you to drive cautiously during this time and be on the lookout for deer crossing roadways."

If a deer is injured or killed, you need to immediately report the incident by calling the non-emergency number at 703-691-2131. Call the Virginia Department of Transportation at 1-800-FOR-ROAD if you find a dead deer in the roadway that needs moving.

Virginia is a particularly high-risk state for deer collisions, ranked at No. 13 in the nation. Drivers have a 1 in 94 chance of filing an insurance claim due to a deer collision.

Fairfax County has posted the following tips for avoiding an accident:

• Be especially attentive at dusk and dawn, which are prime time for movement.
• Watch for eye shine along roadsides. Deer travel in herds. If you see one, others may be near.
• Use high beams when traffic permits to spot deer at a greater distance.
• Be aware of posted “Deer Crossing” signs. Signs are placed in areas known for high deer traffic.
• If a deer is stopped in the roadway, reduce speed and flash your headlights. They can become mesmerized or blinded by bright steady lights.
• If a deer jumps in your vehicle’s path, continue to reduce speed and grasp steering wheel firmly with both hands.
• Never swerve to avoid deer on the road. Swerving can cause loss of control of your vehicle and greatly increase the chance of more serious damage or injury.
• Take foot off brake at time of impact. This action reduces the likelihood of deer crashing through a windshield or windows upon impact.
• Never depend on hood whistles, car horns, or other devices to scare deer out of your path. Several studies have shown that these methods do not always work.
• Always drive the posted speed limit and wear your seat belt.

It’s prime time for deer/car accidents. Read some key driving tips to minimize damage: https://t.co/0OYB789ALP pic.twitter.com/VbcyUSQyFU
— Fairfax County (@fairfaxcounty) December 5, 2016

Image via U.S. Department of Agriculture