Oklahoma Drivers Warned To Watch For Deer In November

November is deer breeding season, and the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office wants to remind motorists to watch for animals on the road.

Almost 16 percent of all Oklahoma crashes involving an animal took place in November last year, according to communications manager Alice Collinsworth. That adds up to 192 of the 1,213 animal-related crashes.

November is hazardous not just because of breeding but because many animals move to new locations as winter approaches. Be especially careful at sunset and sunrise, when animals are most active.

10/26/2011 Related Story: Deer On Roadways Causing Crashes In Green Country

"Drivers should expect the unexpected," Collinsworth said.

"Deer are sometimes known to wander into towns and suburbs in search of food, so drivers in all parts of the state should be cautious."

The OHSO offers these safety tips:

• Be sure everyone in the vehicle is buckled up.
• Avoid distractions; keep your eyes on the road.
• Do not swerve and leave your lane to avoid an animal; many crashes are caused not by the animal, but by driving into another vehicle, a tree, a sign or other object.
• Drive at a safe speed. Always obey the speed limit, and drive more slowly in wildlife areas. Be able to stop within the space of your headlights.
• Heed the warning signs. The "deer crossing" road sign is there for a reason.
• Actively watch both sides of the roads for signs of wildlife.