The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) reminds motorists that when traveling during the evening and early morning hours during the fall and winter months to beware of deer on and near Mississippi roadways. During this time of the year, deer are more active than normal.

Each year, approximately 1.5 million vehicle-deer collisions are reported in the United States. During the months of October through December, deer are more active due to mating season which causes more deer-related crashes. In Mississippi, there were 2,918 deer-related crashes reported in 2007, leading to two fatalities and 254 injuries. This year, 1,498 deer-related crashes have been reported thus far resulting in zero fatalities and 135 injuries.

Factors that can cause deer-related crashes are:

* Mating season

* Increase in hunters and hikers in the woods

* Deer tend to move at daylight and dusk more when visibility is at its poorest for motorists

Several driving tips to help avoid striking a deer:

* Be alert while traveling on roadways from sunset to midnight

* Where there are deer crossing zones, remain alert for deer in the area

* Use high beam headlights to better illuminate the eyes of the deer

* Brake firmly if a deer is in the road, but stay in your lane. Do not swerve to avoid the deer because you might hit another vehicle or lose control of your car.

MDOT reminds all motorists to keep their eyes on the road and always buckle up for safety. They should remember to always drive at a safe speed and if they see one deer, most of the time there are many more close by.