How Many Deer Collisions Take Place in the Mohawk Valley? | Local

AP

UTICA, N.Y. — Drivers are urged to exercise caution during the fall months as deer and moose become more active.

That’s a reminder from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and Department of Environmental Conservation.

Last year, the University at Albany’s Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research reported 32,287 crashes involving deer and 7,616 involving other animals across the State.

These incidents peak in October, November and December.

In 2024, the Mohawk Valley saw 403 deer-related crashes in Herkimer County, 1,310 in Oneida County and 480 in Otsego County. 

If a collision occurs, move your vehicle to a safe location and turn on hazard lights, according to the DMV. Then, call the police.

“There are between 1.1 million to 1.3 million white-tailed deer in New York State, and there are roughly 700 moose in the Adirondack region of the state, with a handful also along the Vermont and Massachusetts borders,” according to the DMV.

Deer and moose are frequently encountered by drivers during dawn and dusk hours.