LUFKIN — With deer season nears, the increased activity in wooded areas and along with the cooler weather, the deer population is already on the move. Motorists are urged to stay alert in pre-dawn hours and just after sunset.
Bow season for white-tailed deer in Texas began on Sept. 28 and ends Nov. 1 in East Texas. Opening day for deer hunting in Texas begins Nov. 2 and ends Jan. 5, 2025. Through these weeks, motorists should be on alert for moving deer that cross the roadways.
“The increased traffic and the scent of humans in East Texas rural wooded areas will drive deer to move, which many times means they will cross the roadway,” said Rhonda Oaks, public information officer. “We are already seeing evidence of deer hits on East Texas roadways. Motorists should watch the roadway and scan the wood line and shoulders, especially during early morning and near sunset.”
Safety tips that could help motorists avoid a crash include:
• Reduce speed if you see a deer near the edge of the roadway. Deer seldom run alone. If you see one, others could be nearby.
• When driving at night, use high beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic. The high beams will better illuminate the eyes of the deer.
• Slow down and blow your horn with one long blast to frighten deer.
• Brake firmly when you notice a deer in or near the road but stay in your lane. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid hitting a deer.
• Always wear your seatbelt.
If your vehicle strikes a deer, do not touch the animal. A frightened and wounded deer can hurt you or further injure itself. Move your car off the road, and if possible, call 911. Remain in your vehicle. It is the safest place. Many secondary crashes occur due to pedestrians in the roadway.
