Thousands of deer-related crashes occur annually in Wake County during deer season

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol reports that Wake County experiences at least a couple thousand crashes involving deer every year, according to a master trooper, WRAL reported.

Deer season has arrived, and drivers are urged to be cautious, especially as days grow shorter and visibility decreases during the upcoming winter months.

WRAL photographer Dwayne Myers shared his recent near-crash experience on a rural road in Sanford, where despite driving below the speed limit with headlights on, a deer collided with his car, causing significant damage but no injuries.

Master Trooper Bianca Oser emphasized that many deer-related crashes they respond to are serious, with higher speeds being a major factor in injuries or fatalities. Drivers are advised to reduce speed in rural and wooded areas to enhance safety.

The patrol recommends vigilance in areas with heavy woods, open fields, and streams where deer are more likely to cross roads, aiming to protect both drivers and wildlife during this season.