Photo: John M Lund Photography Inc / Stone / Getty Images
BOSTON (WBZNewsRadio) - AAA is out with a reminder for drivers on local roads, as crashes involving deer skyrocket across the Commonwealth.
We've entered peak season for deer collisions and AAA says it's crucial to keep an eye out for the animals during the evening commute, with the most dangerous and highest number of reported crashes occurring between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
In 2022, AAA says the number of deer crashes between October and December was the highest on record since 2002. That comes out to about one deer crash every 74 minutes.
“Deer crashes can occur quickly and in unexpected locations,” said Mark Schieldrop, AAA Northeast Senior Spokesperson. “Drivers need to be especially vigilant this time of year.”
Officials say there are a number of things to do to stay safer while behind the wheel, including following the rules of the road. They say following the speed limit could give drivers crucial extra seconds to spot a deer leaping from the side of the road. Looking at last year's collision data, AAA says crashes included drivers going as slow as 15 mph and as fast as 65 mph. If you do happen to see a deer jump from the side of the roadway, remember they rarely travel alone.
The top Massachusetts towns for deer crashes from October-December 2022:
- Middleborough (48)
- Taunton (39)
- Westport (29)
- Swansea (28)
- Rehoboth (22)
- East Bridgewater / Seekonk (tied at 20)
- Freetown (19)
- Acushnet / Plymouth / Wareham (tied at 18)
The top Massachusetts counties for deer crashes from October-December 2022:
- Plymouth (312)
- Bristol (302)
- Worcester (283)
- Middlesex (225)
- Essex (134)
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