The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is urging drivers to stay vigilant on state roadways as deer activity and vehicle collisions with wildlife rise during the fall and winter months, according to a news release.

ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division reported Troopers investigated 1,652 vehicle-versus-wildlife crashes statewide in 2024. The bulk of those crashes occurred during the fall and winter when deer are most active. From September through December, Troopers responded to 930 such crashes, compared to 409 crashes during the spring and summer months.

Crash data from 2024 shows a clear seasonal pattern. Troopers investigated 328 vehicle-versus-wildlife crashes in January and 185 in February. March and April saw 96 and 60 crashes respectively, followed by 45 in May, 53 in June, and 62 in July. Numbers rose slightly in August with 93 crashes and 98 in September. The increase accelerated in October and November, with 167 and 177 crashes, before peaking in December at 288, reflecting heightened deer movement during the fall and winter rut season.

“While these numbers only represent crashes investigated by our Troopers and not those handled by local law enforcement, the data clearly shows an increase in collisions during the fall through winter months,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor in a news release. “We urge everyone traveling Alabama’s roadways to stay alert, particularly in rural and wooded areas where deer are most active.”

ALEA advises motorists to take several precautions to reduce risk:

• Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk when deer are most active.
• Use high beams when possible to spot animals earlier but dim them for oncoming traffic.
• Avoid swerving; if a collision is unavoidable, brake firmly and remain in your lane.
• Watch for multiple deer; they often travel in groups.
• Always wear a seat belt, the most effective protection in a crash.

Motorists are encouraged to minimize distractions and report roadway hazards or collisions to law enforcement by dialing 911 or *HP (*47).