PENNSYLVANIA (WTAJ) — The Pennsylvania Game Commission is urging motorists to use extra caution as deer activity increases across the state and daylight saving time ends Nov. 1.
Officials say the fall breeding season, known as the rut, causes deer, particularly bucks, to move more frequently and travel beyond their usual ranges.
Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, and the time change will put more drivers on the road during peak movement hours.
“The rut is an exciting time for hunters but needs to be a time of heightened awareness for drivers,” Game Commission Executive Director Steve Smith said.
The agency encourages drivers to stay alert, follow cell phone laws, and watch for deer crossing signs. Motorists should also remember that deer often travel in groups, meaning others may follow after one crosses the road.
Drivers who hit a deer are not required to report it to the Game Commission, but Pennsylvania residents may claim a deer killed in a collision by obtaining a free permit through the agency.
Injured deer that pose a public safety risk should be reported to the Game Commission or local law enforcement.
Dead deer on state roads can be reported to PennDOT at 1-800-FIX-ROAD for removal.
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