SOUTHERN INDIANA — As autumn settles across the hills and highways of Southern Indiana, drivers should brace for a seasonal hazard that returns every fall: deer on the move. October and November mark the peak of deer breeding season, or “rut,” when white-tailed deer are more active and far more unpredictable. Add in the corn harvest, which removes their natural cover, and it’s a perfect storm for increased deer crossings.
According to state data, nearly half of all deer-related crashes happen in the fall, with November seeing the sharpest spike. In counties such as Lawrence, Monroe, Orange, and Dubois, drivers know this season all too well—local law enforcement responds to dozens of deer-related accidents each year. Most collisions happen around dawn or dusk when visibility is low and deer are most active. As Indiana DNR biologist Chad Stewart notes, “Though a deer-vehicle accident can occur at any time, your chances of striking a deer are greatest at low-light conditions between October and December.”
According to state data, nearly half of all deer-related crashes happen in the fall, with November seeing the sharpest spike. In counties such as Lawrence, Monroe, Orange, and Dubois, drivers know this season all too well—local law enforcement responds to dozens of deer-related accidents each year. Most collisions happen around dawn or dusk when visibility is low and deer are most active.
As Indiana DNR biologist Chad Stewart notes, “Though a deer-vehicle accident can occur at any time, your chances of striking a deer are greatest at low-light conditions between October and December.”
Autumn’s shorter days put more drivers on the road during deer-active hours. With fields being harvested and deer searching for food and mates, they’re often seen darting across rural roads, wooded highways, and even suburban neighborhoods. Southern Indiana’s mix of forests, farmland, and open highways makes it a prime area for collisions.
The DNR reports that deer tend to travel in groups, meaning if one crosses the road, others are likely close behind. Drivers should take special caution near wooded areas, park boundaries, and along county roads, such as those near Spring Mill State Park, Salt Creek, and the backroads of Monroe and Orange counties.
To help prevent collisions, experts recommend heightened awareness and slower speeds, especially at dawn and dusk. Use high beams when safe to do so, as the light can reflect off a deer’s eyes, giving drivers extra warning. Pay attention to yellow deer crossing signs—these are placed in known migration zones for a reason.
If you spot a deer ahead, slow down and avoid swerving. Swerving often leads to more dangerous crashes with other vehicles or roadside obstacles. It’s safer to brake firmly and maintain control of your vehicle.
Officials also advise drivers to wear seatbelts at all times; most serious injuries in deer collisions occur when drivers or passengers are unrestrained. Despite popular belief, deer whistles and similar devices have not been proven effective. A more reliable defense is to drive cautiously, avoid distractions, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
If a deer collision does happen, stay calm and focused. Move your vehicle safely off the roadway, turn on your hazard lights, and check for injuries. Alert the police to the accident immediately by calling 911, and remain at the scene.
Do not approach an injured deer—wounded animals are frightened and can kick or thrash violently.
In Indiana, if you hit a deer with your vehicle, you are legally allowed to keep it—but only with a permit. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources issues a free Special Purpose Salvage Permit that will enable you to take possession of the deer. Law enforcement officers or DNR conservation officers can issue this permit on the spot. If you don’t want to keep the deer, officials will arrange for proper disposal.
For those who choose to use the meat, local processors can prepare the venison, and many work with Indiana’s Sportsman’s Benevolence Fund to donate meat to food banks and shelters. Donating a deer is an excellent way to turn an unfortunate accident into a benefit for others. It is illegal to sell wild venison in Indiana, and drivers should never take a deer without a proper salvage permit.
The Indiana DNR also reminds motorists that if a deer is alive but badly injured, they should never attempt to handle or euthanize it. Contact law enforcement or a DNR officer to handle the situation safely. Maintaining distance and ensuring everyone stays out of the roadway are the best ways to prevent further accidents.
For those navigating the backroads and highways of Southern Indiana this fall, awareness is everything. Deer collisions are a yearly challenge, but they are largely preventable with care and attention. Remember to slow down, stay alert, and drive with extra caution at dawn and dusk. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources emphasizes that while deer crashes can happen anywhere, most are avoidable if drivers remain watchful and resist overreacting.
As the DNR reminds Hoosiers, “Deer-vehicle accidents will happen with so many deer and cars on the road, but the best we can do is take measures to keep them to a minimum.”
With hunting season, cooler weather, and the rut in full swing, now is the time to stay vigilant. Every driver in Southern Indiana can help make the roads safer by slowing down, staying buckled, and watching the roadsides closely. Stay safe this fall—and remember, the next pair of glowing eyes you see might be closer than you think.
