Dusk to Dawn, Deer Mating Season Brings More Road Risks

As daylight hours shorten, drivers across Virginia are being urged to stay extra vigilant on the roads. VDOT warns that the combination of the annual deer mating season, from mid-October through November, and the end of daylight saving time is creating a higher risk of collisions with wildlife.

 

During this period, deer become more active and often use roadside edges to forage as other fall food sources diminish. They’re especially likely to cross highways and rural roads around dawn and dusk, with forested and stream-lined areas showing the greatest activity. Night driving compounds the danger: ordinary headlights only illuminate about 250 feet ahead, leaving drivers less time to react.

 

VDOT offers several key safety tips: do not swerve to avoid a deer (which could cause loss of vehicle control); instead, brake firmly and stay in your lane. If you spot one deer, slow down — there are likely more nearby. Use high-beam headlights when safe, scan road shoulders, and honk if needed to alert animals. If a collision happens, pull onto the shoulder, turn on hazard lights, and remain in your vehicle.

 

By remaining alert and slowing down in known high-risk zones, drivers can help protect themselves and the abundant wildlife crossing Virginia’s roads this season.