McCracken County Sheriff warns of rising deer collisions, urges driver caution

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

MCCRACKEN COUNTY, Ky., (KBSI) — The McCracken County Sheriff’s Office is urging drivers to use extra caution as deer-related collisions sharply increase during the fall months. Deputies say motorists are most at risk during early morning and evening hours, when deer are most active.

The department released several safety reminders to help reduce crashes:

Stay aware: Use heightened caution in wooded areas and during dawn and dusk.

Be prepared: Wear a seat belt, as required by law, and avoid distractions, including cell phones.

Use headlights properly: Keep high beams on when possible, lowering them for oncoming traffic.

Slow down: If a deer is spotted, ease off the accelerator. Deer often travels in groups.

Do not swerve: Swerving to avoid a deer can lead to more serious collisions with other vehicles or roadside objects.

If a crash occurs: Keep both hands on the wheel, brake steadily, and pull to the shoulder when safe.

The sheriff’s office also released dash camera footage from a cruiser showing a recent deer strike.