Deer, though often perceived as gentle inhabitants of natural landscapes, are wild animals that can pose risks to humans. While deer generally prefer to avoid human interaction, certain circumstances can lead to dangerous encounters. Understanding these situations and taking appropriate precautions is important for safety.
How Deer Can Injure Humans
Vehicle collisions are the most frequent and severe way deer injure humans. Approximately 1.6 million deer-vehicle collisions occur in the United States annually, resulting in around 59,000 human injuries and 440 fatalities each year. These incidents most commonly happen at dawn and dusk, when deer are most active and visibility for drivers is reduced.
Beyond vehicle accidents, deer can exhibit aggressive behavior in direct encounters. During the rutting season, from October to December, male deer (bucks) experience elevated testosterone levels, making them territorial. They may charge at perceived rivals or threats, including humans, using their antlers and hooves.
Female deer (does) can become protective of their young during fawning season, from late May to early July. A doe may charge if she feels a human or dog is too close to her fawn.
Deer can also lash out if they feel cornered, are injured, or have become habituated to human feeding. This can make them demanding or aggressive if food is not provided.
Preventing Negative Encounters
Exercising caution while driving is a primary method for preventing deer-related harm. Drivers should be particularly vigilant during dawn and dusk, when deer are most active. Utilizing high-beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic can improve visibility and allow more time to react to deer near the roadway. If one deer is spotted, slowing down and anticipating others is advised, as deer often travel in groups. If a deer appears in the roadway, firm braking is recommended, but swerving should be avoided, as it can lead to loss of vehicle control and more severe accidents.
Avoiding direct interaction with deer is also important for safety. People should never approach, attempt to feed, or try to pet deer, as this can cause them to lose their natural fear of humans and become unpredictable. Feeding deer can also lead to health problems for the animals and increase their presence in residential areas, raising the risk of collisions and aggressive encounters. If a deer acts aggressively or charges, making oneself appear larger by waving arms or a jacket, shouting loudly, and backing away slowly can help deter the animal. If possible, placing an object like a tree or vehicle between oneself and the deer, or seeking higher ground, offers additional protection.
When to Seek Assistance
If a vehicle collision with a deer occurs, prioritizing safety is important. Drivers should move their vehicle to a safe location if possible and turn on hazard lights. Reporting the incident to local law enforcement or wildlife authorities is often necessary, especially if there are injuries, significant vehicle damage, or if the deer is obstructing the roadway.
In situations where a direct encounter results in human injury, immediate medical attention should be sought. For concerns about injured deer or deer exhibiting aggressive behavior in residential areas, contacting animal control or local wildlife agencies is advisable. These agencies can assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action.