Why October Through December Can Be Dangerous for New York Drivers

October Through December Dangerous For New York Drivers

Did you know that starting in October through December is deer and moose breeding season in New York State?

With that being said, data shows that most deer-vehicle collisions in New York happen during that stretch of time.

The NYSDOT recently shared information that they've collected with the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Thruway Authority in hopes to keep drivers safe during these busy deer breeding times.

In the statement shared on the DOT website they explain

NYSDOT has worked with the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DE and the state Thruway Authority to ensure that roads have plenty of warning signs posted where moose and deer are known to travel.

Adding that it's especially important "from October through December during the animals' peak breeding times when they are far less cautions."

The DOT website continues:

With a statewide deer population of approximately 900,000, there are an estimated 60,000 to 70,000 deer-vehicle collisions that occur throughout New York State each year.

The DOT has shared a "Don't Be a Statistic"

Safety Tips for New York Drivers During Deer Mating Season

The New York State Department of Transportation shared a few ways to keep yourself safe on the road during deer ( and moose) mating season.

Of course they stress to use caution when driving at dawn or dusk and to reduce your speed at night and "use high beams when possible." They also recommend slowing down when "approaching deer or moose standing near the roadside, as they may suddenly bolt into the road."

Deer and moose usually travel in groups. When you see one on the side of the road, there's a good chance there's another or a group nearby, another reason to slow down when you see the animals roadside.

• Slow down when approaching deer or moose standing near the roadside, as they may suddenly bolt into the road;

The NYSDOT listed out the following safety tips to keep in mind:

• Briefly use flashers or a headlight signal to warn approaching drivers when deer or moose are spotted in or near the highway;

• Be especially alert and use caution when traveling through frequent deer or moose crossing areas, which are usually marked with “leaping stag” or moose signs;

• Do not rely on devices, such as deer whistles, extra lights or reflectors, to deter deer. Research has shown that your best defense is your own responsible behavior;

• Motorcyclists should be especially alert for deer as motorcycle-deer collisions have a higher fatality rate; and

• If a deer does run in front of your vehicle, brake firmly but do not swerve. Swerving can cause a vehicle-vehicle collision or cause the vehicle to strike a pedestrian or potentially deadly fixed object, such as a tree or utility pole

For more safety tips and information about deer/moose vs. car accidents learn more at DOT.NY.GOV. 

Have You Seen Moose Roaming Around Hudson Valley Roads?

While moose are native to New York, they are usually found more towards the Adirondacks.

Over the last few years, there have been a few moose sightings in the Hudson Valley region. The DOT reports:

Fall is also the breeding season for moose in New York State. Recently, moose populations and moose-vehicle collisions have increased slightly in New York.

We've keep an eye out every year for moose in the area. So far in 2026, we've only heard of one sighting in the Pawling area.

If you see a moose let us know! In the meantime check out past sightings below: