I wake up bright and early and typically hit the road by 4:45 am to arrive on time for the start of the Good Morning Rodeo. Of course, that means I have the road mostly to myself, but lately, I've noticed it's been me and some deer along the roadways. 

Luckily, I've not had any accidents, and I hope this article doesn't jinx me, but I write this article as a cautionary reminder to keep an eye out for our white-tailed friends.

Recent statistics indicate that Iowa is often in the Top 5 for the highest state in which coming into a collision with a deer is possible. Wisconsin ranks close to Iowa and Illinois fares only slightly better. However, state statistics may not be accurate when factoring in the Tri-State's vast woodlands and farmland. 

Photo Credit: Keith B. via Canva
Photo Credit: Keith B. via Canva
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Usually, from October through December, deer season sees a significant increase in deer venturing into neighborhoods and onto highways. This results in more deer-vehicle collisions. However, It's also fawning season where the doe has prepared to take her watchful eye off to let her yearling fawns venture out on their own. So as they find their way it could be toward a tragic encounter with traffic.

While countless researchers have failed to seriously document any changes in deer activity during new moons, quarter-moons, and full moons. Many hunters vigorously defend a lunar-based belief that deer are more active. In fact, many hunters will also plan their schedules around lunar activity.

While anecdotal, evidence points to an increase in deer movement during the peak summer solstice. The increased daylight hours and a recent Strawberry Supermoon was quite luminous.

Susie and Carl Droessler of rural Menominee, Illinois, recently encountered six deer on Highway 20 outside of Galena. Unfortunately, they and a couple of other vehicles collided with a few deer and experienced real damage. 

"I had to go to the chiropractor yesterday after we hit one of six deer. So if traveling along Highway 20 or the Tri-States, be careful and look for deer on our roads and highways." Susie Droessler / Menominee, IL.

According to Geico Insurance, these suggestions may keep you from colliding with a deer and save you both from severe damage or worse. 

Graphic Credit: Keith B. via Canva
Graphic Credit: Keith B. via Canva
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  1. Watch for the rest of the gang. Deer are pack animals and rarely travel alone.
  2. Timing is everything. Deer are most active at dusk and dawn: periods when your vision is most compromised.
  3. Use your headlights. First, look for the road signs.
  4. Stay center.
  5. Brake, don't swerve.
  6. Honk!
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