The RSPCA wildlife department has produced a factsheet on deer road traffic accidents (RTAs).
Road traffic accidents (RTAs) involving deer are common throughout the year, but especially during the rut – this is in autumn for fallow and red deer, and early summer for roe deer. The RSPCA is helping with research being carried out by the Deer Vehicle Collisions Project, into where collisions are most frequent and why. It is hoped that the information gathered will mean something can be done to prevent RTAs in future.
How drivers can help avoid accidents involving deer.
- Take note of road signs warning of deer and drive with extreme caution at or below the speed limit.
- Take extra care during the high-risk periods of early morning and early evening.
- Use full-beam headlights when there is no traffic in front or coming towards you. The beam of the headlights will illuminate the eyes of any deer on or near a road and give you a better chance of avoiding them. If you spot a deer on the road, dim your lights as animals startled by bright light may ‘freeze’ instead of moving away.
- Be prepared to stop. Try not to suddenly swerve to avoid hitting a deer. The consequences of swerving into the path of oncoming traffic or a ditch could be much worse.
- Only brake sharply and stop if there is no danger of being hit by traffic behind you. If you have to stop, use your hazard warning lights.
- Be aware that more deer may follow the first one you see.
- Report any collisions with deer to the police. They should have a list of contacts available to deal with injured deer at the roadside.
If you are involved in an accident involving an animal and are unsure what to do, call the RSPCA 24-hour cruelty and advice line 0300 1234 999.
Read our advice about what to do if you find an injured deer.
Caution:- Handling of any animal either domestic, wild, dead or alive may be potentially hazardous. Obvious dangers include bites, scratches and general hygiene issues. Common sense should be applied in all instances, and, if unsure, seek additional advice or assistance. Personal hygiene should be taken into consideration after handling any animal, whether it’s domestic, wild, dead or alive.
For more information about deer in the UK, please visit our deer page.
Further useful information: