NJDOT Urge Motorists to Exercise Caution as Deer Mating Season Begins in NJ

Local authorities issue safety guidelines for drivers during fall, the peak season for deer-related vehicular accidents in New Jersey.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) are cautioning Morristown drivers to be vigilant as the deer mating season gets underway. The period is notorious for a spike in deer-related car accidents.

Who: NJDEP and NJDOT.
What: Safety warnings and guidelines for motorists regarding deer mating season.
When: Effective immediately, with particular caution advised when Daylight Saving Time ends on November 5th.
Where: Throughout New Jersey, impacting residents of Morristown and Morris County.
Why: To reduce the number of deer-related accidents, particularly during fall.
How: By adhering to the provided safety guidelines and tips for motorists.

"Deer are involved in thousands of collisions with motor vehicles in New Jersey each year, with the highest number occurring during the fall mating season," said NJDEP Fish & Wildlife Assistant Commissioner Dave Golden.

With days becoming shorter, deer are becoming increasingly active. This heightened activity is most noticeable during early morning hours and around sunset—times when visibility is often compromised.

The urgency for caution amplifies after November 5, when Daylight Saving Time ends. Commuting hours will overlap with deer's most active periods, making it essential for motorists to adapt their driving habits to low-light conditions.

Safety Guidelines:

Authorities offer a list of precautionary measures for drivers:

Slow down if you spot a deer and be prepared for sudden movement.
Heed "Deer Crossing" signs, and adjust speed in high deer-concentration areas.
Utilize high beams after dark when there’s no oncoming traffic, as deer eyes reflect light.
Be alert for more deer if one crosses the road; they usually move in groups.
Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to avoid sudden stops.
Always wear seatbelts and adapt speed according to road conditions.
In case of an inevitable collision, do not swerve; stick to your lane and brake appropriately.

Residents are also advised to report any deer-vehicle collisions to local law enforcement agencies immediately.

For more information about white-tailed deer in New Jersey, you can visit NJDEP’s website. For specific deer season regulations, visit here.

As fall sets in, NJDEP and NJDOT strongly recommend Morristown residents to exercise heightened vigilance on the roads to mitigate the risks associated with deer mating season.

Public safety remains a priority for local authorities, who urge all Morristown residents to heed these guidelines and share them within their communities for a safer driving environment this fall.