MoDOT urges drivers to watch for deer as fall collisions increase
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — The Missouri Department of Transportation is urging drivers to watch for deer and other wildlife as cooler weather and longer nights increase animal movement.
Most deer-related crashes occur in October and November between 6 and 7 a.m. and between 6 and 9 p.m., according to MoDOT.
Missouri recorded more than 2,800 crashes involving deer in 2025, resulting in six deaths and 435 injuries, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The state ranked 15th nationally in deer-vehicle collisions last year, according to State Farm’s annual report.
MoDOT warns that wildlife collisions can happen outside rural areas and recommends drivers:
– Wear seat belts and avoid cellphone use and other distractions.
– Control their speed and stay alert.
– Avoid swerving, which can send a vehicle off the road or into oncoming traffic.
– Slow down and watch for additional deer when one crosses the road.
– Leave enough distance behind other vehicles to allow for sudden stops.
MoDOT maintenance crews remove animal debris from driving lanes. Drivers can report an animal carcass in the roadway by calling 888-275-6636 or visiting modot.org/report-road-concern.
