Car Accidents Caused by Deer Joe Patava English 108 Des Moines Area Community College December 2, 2009

Crop Harvest Months of October, November, December farmers are harvesting their crops Pushes deer out of habitat May cross paths with drivers

Deer Rut The mating season, also referred to as “the rut,” occurs during late October and most of November Deer are very active during these times Bucks are on a constant move looking for a doe in heat Deer are not as weary of surroundings, which leads to more accidents

Hunting Seasons The main deer hunting seasons consist of bow season, 2 shotgun seasons, late muzzleloader, and late bow season. Dates run from October 1 st through January 10 th This pressure from hunters puts deer on a constant move.

Statistics 1.5 million crashes every year in the United States. 1 billion dollars in damage every year 10,000 injuries and 150 deaths. Iowa ranks third in nation for car crashes related to deer. There has been a 17% increase in accidents the last five years Average damage is 3,050 dollars.

Statistics

Solutions Increase tags that hunters can purchase This will help lower deer numbers and increase state revenue

Solutions Defensive Driving tips Fasten seatbelt Pay attention to deer crossing signs Dawn and dusk deer are most active One deer usually means there is more Don’t swerve may hit another object or car Harvest and mating seasons deer are on the move

Conclusion Deer are becoming an overpopulated species here in Iowa and actions need to be taken to insure the safety of all Iowa motorist. Thank you for listening

Work References Danielson, Dar. “Insurance company say collision with deer are up.” Radio Iowa Sep “Does Led Iowa Harvest for Fourth Consecutive Year.” Iowa DNR Mar. 10, “Driving Down Deer-Vehicle Crashes- use precautions at this time of year to reduce your risks.” America Family Insurance Sep room/archives/archives.asp?article=2009_1002 Leopold, Richard. “Natural Resources.” Results Iowa Aug Murphy, Joe. “Iowa Deer Population at Tragic Numbers.” Iowa Farm Bureau. 22 Jun