Shocking Number of Deer and Moose Accidents Across New York State

In 2024, across New York State, there were over 32,000 crashes involving deer and over 7,000 accidents involving other animals.

The New York State Department of Enviornmental Conservation is shared the shocking statistic in a recent press release.

According to the University of Albany’s Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research, there were approximately 32,287 crashes involving deer and 7,616 accidents with other animals.

Their research also shows a spike in those numbers during the months of October, November and December.

The deer accident breakdown by month in 2024 is as follows:

October: 5,854
November: 5,854
December 3,624

DEC Issues Fall Warning About Moose and Deer Collisions

The DEC is warning New York drivers to be alert during the fall season as animal involved accidents spike.

According to their research there is anywhere between 1.1 million to 1.3 million white-tailed deer in NYS. Additionally, there are about 700 moose in and around the Adirondack region.

With that information the DEC want to remind drivers to take precautions “to reduce the chance of hitting a deer or moose.”

Those precautions include the following:

Decrease speed when you approach deer near roadsides. Deer can “bolt” or change direction at the last minute.Use emergency lights or a headlight signal to warn other drivers when deer are seen on or near the road.When a deer or moose is seen approaching the roadway ahead, honk your car horn to help them avoid entering the roadway.Use extreme caution when driving at dawn or dusk, when animal movement is at its highest and visibility is reduced.

If an animal is struck by a vehicle the DEC “advises motorist to stay away from the animal” as they may be frightened an can use their “powerful, sharp hooves to cause harm.”

Learn more at DEC.NY.GOV

Moose Sightings in The Hudson Valley

While moose aren’t a common occurrence in the Hudson Valley, occasional sightings do happen.

Especially towards the end of September and early October.

Recently, a small moose was spotted around the Clinton Corners, Millbrook area of Dutchess County.

READ MORE: Millbrook Residents Surprised By Moose Wandering Around Town

Over the years, we’ve tried to keep track of some of the sightings. Take a look below as we mapped out a moose sighting between 2021 and 2023:

Mapping Out Moose Sightings Across The Hudson Valley

For the last year or so, we’ve been getting more and more moose sightings in and around the Hudson Valley. We’ve mapped out a few of the most recent sightings in our neighborhoods.

Hiker Comes Within 5 Feet Of Adirondack Male Moose

Gallery Credit: Credit – Dave Wheeler

Moose on Loose Strolls New York Beach

A moose was captured wandering Port Henry beach before heading back home to the forest where she belonged. An employee preparing to open the gates captured the majestic animal early one morning.

Gallery Credit: Credit – Polly McAdams

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