As Iowa’s deer enter their annual rut, the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) is urging drivers to remain vigilant, especially as deer become more active and unpredictable. Deer collisions are already a significant hazard on Iowa roads. In 2023, there were 8,023 vehicle-animal crashes, resulting in five deaths, 23 serious injuries, and more than 260 minor injuries. DOT officials remind drivers to stay alert, particularly at dawn and dusk when deer are most active. Safety tips include scanning roadsides for movement, reducing speed, and keeping high beams on when possible to detect the reflective “eyeshine” of animals. A leading cause of such accidents is driver distraction, often from cell phones. DOT officials stress the importance of putting devices away and focusing on the road. “Brake, don’t veer” is their key advice if deer appear, as sudden swerving can lead to more severe accidents. As of Friday, Nov. 1, Iowa has recorded 295 traffic fatalities so far this year, nearly five percent lower than last year’s count but still 10.5 percent above the five-year low.
