Crime & Safety
Des Moines, IA Deer Crash Alert: 1 Dead, Others Injured Over Weekend
Des Moines, IA — Iowa drivers are being urged to use extra caution on roadways this week after two weekend incidents involving motorcycles and deer resulted in injuries, including one death, prompting
By Mason Reid · 2026-10-12T16:11:03.376Z
Des Moines, IA — Iowa drivers are being urged to use extra caution on roadways this week after two weekend incidents involving motorcycles and deer resulted in injuries, including one death, prompting a statewide safety reminder as peak deer activity season gets underway.
According to Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management, two separate incidents involving motorcycles and deer occurred over the weekend of Oct. 10 11, resulting in injuries and at least one fatality.
The agency issued its warning Monday, Oct. 12, emphasizing that October through December represents a particularly dangerous period for deer related roadway encounters.
During these months, deer become increasingly active because of mating and seasonal migration patterns, raising the likelihood of animals unexpectedly entering roadways.
Officials warned that dawn and dusk are especially dangerous times for deer encounters , when animals are frequently moving and visibility may be reduced.
The agency did not identify the locations of the two weekend incidents, provide the identities of those involved or specify how many people were injured.
Following the incidents, emergency management officials outlined several precautions motorists should take when traveling throughout Iowa.
Drivers are encouraged to reduce their speed, increase following distances and continuously scan both sides of the roadway for approaching wildlife.
Officials also emphasized an important safety recommendation: Do not swerve to avoid a deer.
If an animal suddenly enters the roadway, motorists should brake firmly while maintaining control of their vehicle and remaining in their lane.
Swerving can increase the risk of losing control or becoming involved in a more serious collision.
The warning applies to drivers statewide, particularly those traveling through rural areas and roads bordered by wooded areas or open fields.
With deer activity expected to remain elevated through December, officials are encouraging motorists to remain especially attentive during early morning and evening travel.
Additional deer safety information is available through Iowa's official website at https://go.iowa.gov/38Da .