Ohio Deer-Related Accidents Down in 2013

Ohio officials say the number of reported deer-related car crashes in the state decreased in 2013.

The Ohio Department of Public Safety says about 20,200 deer-vehicle crashes were reported last year. That’s nearly 800 fewer crashes than in 2012. Despite the decrease in crashes, the public safety department says the number of related fatalities increased to eight in 2013 compared to six in 2012.

The Ohio counties with the highest number of reported deer-vehicle crashes in 2013 were Stark (568), Richland (511), Lorain (486), Hamilton (474) and Clermont (466).

Despite the drop in crashes, Ohio officials warn that the risk of hitting a dear is greater in October, November and December, when deer mating season peaks. Most deer-vehicle crashes occur at dusk and dawn.