10/19/2026
The prettiest drives of the year come with a hidden risk standing at the edge of the trees.
Fall is breeding season for deer, and from October through December they move far more than usual. Many insurance and highway reports show that this is the peak time of year for deer crashes, with November often the worst month.
Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, exactly when the light is low and the glare is strongest. That golden-hour drive home through the trees is when you need to watch the road edges most carefully.
Deer rarely travel alone. If one crosses in front of you, slow down and expect another to follow, often a few seconds later.
On dark country roads, use your high beams when there is no oncoming traffic. They can pick up the shine of eyes along the shoulder much sooner. And those yellow deer-crossing signs are not decoration. They mark places where deer cross regularly.
If a deer steps out, brake firmly and stay in your lane. Swerving is one of the most dangerous things you can do, because it can send you into oncoming traffic or a tree.
If you do hit one, pull over somewhere safe, turn on your hazard lights and call for help if anyone is hurt. Do not approach the animal. An injured deer can kick and cause serious harm.
Slow down on wooded roads this fall.
Watch the shoulders at dawn and dusk.
Share this with someone who drives country roads.
The view is worth enjoying. Arriving safely is worth even more.
