Deer in your headlights? Stark County leads the state of Ohio in deer-related crashes

Stark County leads Ohio in deer-related crashes.

There have been more than 3,100 deer-related accidents in Stark since 2019, with 350 of those occurring so far this year, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Two of these accidents resulted in serious injuries.

In total, more than 109,600 deer-related accidents have occurred in Ohio over the past five years.

US Route 30 is one of the most dangerous roads for deer crashes in Stark, 230 of which will take place along the highway. Interstate 77 isn’t far behind with 227 crashes.

The number of deer accidents peaks in November, because this is the mating season for deer.

Most accidents occur in the early morning hours between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. and at night between 5 and 10 p.m., when deer are most active.

Deadly deer crash: Tuscarawa man dies in motorcycle accident with deer

Where in Ohio are you most likely to hit a deer?

Here’s a look at the top 5 counties in Ohio where you’re most likely to hit a deer, according to the Highway Patrol as of 2016:

1. Grim: 3,137

2. Richland: 2,883

3. Hancock: 2,731

4. Challenge: 2,561

5. Tuscarawas: 2,524

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How much damage do deer cause?

Hitting a deer can be expensive. The Insurance Institute for Road Safety reported last year that the average cost of striking an animal in November, based on insurance claims over the past decade, was $4,600.

How can I avoid a collision with deer?

Canton City Public Health has provided tips for drivers prevent a deer collision:

• If you see one deer running across the road, chances are more will follow. Look after.

• Be alert at sunrise and sunset (from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.)

• Use high beam when there is no oncoming traffic.

• Resist the urge to swerve. Stay in your lane with both hands firmly on the steering wheel.

• Always wear your seat belt.

• If you are involved in an accident, take your car to a safe place and call the police.

How long is the mating season for deer?

White-tailed deer mating season has begun Ohio usually begins in mid-October and typically lasts through November.

How do deer survive winter?

Many deer species have a thicker fur coat to help them stay warm in the winter months, and they also rely on fat reserves which they build up during the fall for extra insulation.

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Where in Ohio are you most likely to hit a deer? Strong province