October 31, 2023 - As the first Saturday in November approaches, deer hunters are making plans to head to the woods. With increased activity in the wooded areas of East Texas, along with the cooler weather, deer and other wildlife are on the move.
Pre-dawn and just after sunset are times deer are known to be active. Stay alert when driving near wooded areas during these hours.
“The increased traffic and the scent of humans in East Texas rural wooded areas will drive deer to move, which many times means across the roadway,” said Rhonda Oaks, public information officer. “Keep your eyes on the roadway and scan the wood line and shoulders as you drive, especially during these hours.”
Follow these safety tips for driving during deer season to help you stay safe:
• Reduce speed if you see a deer near the edge of the roadway. Deer seldom move alone. If you see one deer, others could be nearby.
• When driving at night, use high beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic. The high beams will better illuminate the eyes of the deer.
• Slow down and blow your horn with one long blast to frighten the deer.
• Brake firmly when you notice a deer in or near the road but stay in your lane. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid hitting a deer.
• Always wear your seatbelt.
• If your vehicle strikes a deer, do not touch the animal. A frightened and wounded deer can hurt you or further injure itself. Move your car off the road, if possible, and call 911. Remain in your vehicle. It is the safest place. Many secondary crashes occur due to pedestrians in the roadway.
For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov (mailto:Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov) or call (936) 633-4395
