With the sun dipping below the now barren tree-line earlier and earlier until the shortest day of the year on December 21, visibility (especially while driving) is also decreasing – and drivers around here know well that this means regarding the wildlife.

According to the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT), there are roughly 60,000 to 70,000 deer-related vehicle accidents, most of which usually occur between the peak months of October, November and December. The inflated amount of occurrences could be due to the bucks beginning their chase of the does, as well as the drastic change in daylight, thanks to daylight savings.

While we cannot change Mother Nature’s call for the prospective deer parents, nor alter the time of the setting sun, there are some ways to ensure that the deer make it to the other side of the road and you keep both your headlights working and bumper unscratched.

To avoid these, the DOT suggests lowering the speed of your vehicle and remaining hyper-vigilant at all times for the erratically-located animals. In a lot of Sullivan County, low lighting and twisty back roads also enhance the dangers of making contact with animals crossing the road.

Even when you see them, they might not see you, which would explain why some deer choose the exact wrong moment to make that fateful dash. Don’t forget either that these packs often come in at three or four; never assume it’s just one! With these majestic and sometimes-crazy creatures, you just never really know.

Hopefully, with the return of deer season this past Saturday, the risk for such collisions is lowered back down. This county is home to some of New York’s best hunters, and with their true aim, the droves of deer should be culled back to an appropriate amount. To our hunters, be safe and be effective in your taking of your game.