Stay Alert: Kentucky Drivers Warned About Increased Deer Collisions Risk

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet just issued its annual "Antler Alert.' Yes! 'Tis the season for deer collisions on Kentucky highways and roadways. Statistics show that most deer/vehicle collisions- nearly half of them- take place in the last three months of the year. November, by the way, is typically the most destructive month of all. If you are traveling in areas with high deer populations, you are advised to have your guard up.

Here in western Kentucky, there are a variety of roadways that are notorious for deer-vehicle collisions. I-165 (the Natcher) between Owensboro and Bowling Green is certainly one of those. The Audubon Parkway between Owensboro and Henderson is another. The Pennyrile Parkway, which connects Henderson to Hopkinsville via Madisonville, is yet another.

WHICH KENTUCKY COUNTIES HAVE THE MOST DEER COLLISIONS?

The 2023 collision statistics for state were recently released and several western Kentucky counties are firmly inside the Top 10. As a matter of fact, Hopkins County leads all 120 counties in the Commonwealth. Last year, there were 126 reported deer collisions in and around Madisonville. That figure is astounding.

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The other counties inside the Top 10 are as follows:

#2 Boone County (121)

#3 Hardin County (106)

#4- Henderson County (97)

#5- Christian County (96)

#6- Pulaski County (93)

#7- Warren County (87)

#8T- Campbell County (84)

#8T- Muhlenberg County (84)

#10- Barren County (68)

In Kentucky, there were 3,228 reported deer collisions in 2023. That number is up nearly 150 from 2022.

HOW TO AVOID HITTING DEER?

If you're driving along a highly populated roadway, you're advised to follow these safety tips:

1) Be on the lookout for deer and deer crossing signs.

2) Reduce your speed when you're driving through areas where deer are known to be

3) Remember that deer typically travel in groups. If you see one, there are others around.

4) Be mindful that deer are most active at dawn and dusk.

5) Never veer from deer.

6) As always, buckle up!