Tips for Avoiding Deer Collisions During Hunting Season and Beyond

Deer hunting season in Kingston, Ontario (WMU 91) brings increased deer activity, making collision prevention especially important right now and throughout the year. Here are comprehensive strategies to keep you safe:

Understanding Peak Risk Periods

During Hunting Season (Current Priority)

• Deer are more active and unpredictable due to hunting pressure
• They may flee into roadways unexpectedly
• Current bow season runs until November 30
• Shotgun season (November 17-30) pushes deer into new territories
• Muzzleloader season (December 15-24) extends the risk period

Year-Round High-Risk Times

• Dawn and dusk (5-8 AM and 5-midnight) – peak deer movement times
• Fall mating season (October-December) – bucks are less cautious
• Spring (April-June) – does with fawns are more active

Essential Driving Strategies

Speed and Awareness

• Reduce speed in deer zones – especially on rural roads around Kingston
• Scan roadsides continuously, not just the road ahead
• Use high beams when possible (no oncoming traffic) to spot reflective eyes
• Pay extra attention near wooded areas, water sources, and agricultural fields

Key Warning Signs

• One deer means more – they typically travel in groups
• Watch for deer crossing signs – they mark documented collision areas
• Be alert near harvested farm fields where deer feed
• Notice fresh deer tracks or droppings on road shoulders

If You See a Deer

1. Slow down immediately – don’t swerve suddenly
2. Honk your horn – one long blast to frighten deer away
3. Flash your headlights if deer are on the roadside
4. Brake firmly – but stay in your lane if collision is imminent
5. Don’t veer into oncoming traffic – hitting a deer is safer than a head-on collision

Swerving vs. Braking: The Critical Decision

Why NOT to swerve:

• Increases risk of rollover accidents
• Could cause head-on collision with oncoming vehicles
• May hit trees, poles, or enter ditches
• Loss of vehicle control is more dangerous than hitting a deer

Proper technique:

• Brake firmly and stay straight
• Grip steering wheel tightly
• Aim for the rear of the deer if collision is unavoidable (they usually bound forward)

Seasonal Considerations for Kingston Area

November (Current)

• Peak hunting activity = peak deer movement
• Shorter daylight hours = more dawn/dusk commuting
• Watch Highways 15, 38, and 401 corridors

December-January

• Post-hunting season, deer return to normal patterns
• Winter conditions add complexity
• Deep snow pushes deer closer to plowed roads

Spring-Summer

• Does protecting fawns may dart into roads
• Lush roadside vegetation attracts deer
• Better visibility but don’t become complacent

Vehicle Preparation

• Keep windshield and headlights clean
• Ensure brakes are in good condition
• Consider deer whistles (effectiveness debated but low cost)
• Maintain clear sight lines by trimming dash clutter

If a Collision Occurs

1. Safety first – move to safe location if possible
2. Call police – required in Ontario for wildlife collisions
3. Don’t approach injured deer – they can be dangerous
4. Document everything – photos of vehicle damage, location, road conditions
5. Contact your insurance (Insurance Direct Kingston) immediately
6. Report to MTO if damage exceeds $2,000

Insurance Considerations

For Insurance Direct Kingston clients:

• Deer collisions are typically covered under comprehensive coverage (not collision)
• Report claims promptly even if damage seems minor
• Comprehensive claims often have different deductibles
• Multiple deer strikes may not affect rates like at-fault accidents
• Keep documentation of the incident and police report

Community Resources

• Ontario MTO Wildlife Collision Reports – helps identify high-risk areas
• Kingston area hunting regulations – understanding season dates helps predict deer movement
• Local wildlife corridors – familiarize yourself with known crossing areas

The Bottom Line

With hunting season active through December 24, Kingston-area drivers face elevated deer collision risks. The combination of hunting pressure, mating season, and reduced daylight creates perfect conditions for deer-vehicle encounters.

Remember: A deer collision typically costs $2,000-$5,000 in vehicle damage, but a swerving accident can be catastrophic. Stay alert, reduce speed in high-risk areas, and prioritize straight-line braking over evasive maneuvers.

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Stay safe on Kingston roads this hunting season and beyond! Your awareness and preparation are your best defense against deer collisions.