Palos Park, IL – With deer activity on the rise this fall, local police are urging drivers to take extra precautions to avoid collisions on area roads.
According to the Palos Park Police Department, deer are most active at dawn and dusk during this time of year, making roadway encounters more likely. Officers shared a list of safety reminders, including watching for deer crossing signs, reducing speed, and using a horn if deer are spotted near the roadway.
Authorities also stressed the importance of staying in control if a deer crosses suddenly. “If a deer jumps in front of you, it’s safer to brake firmly and stay in your lane rather than swerving, which could cause a more serious crash,” police stated.
The department emphasized wearing seatbelts at all times, noting that it remains a driver’s best defense against injury in the event of a collision.
State transportation officials have repeatedly warned that deer-related crashes peak in the fall due to mating season and migration patterns. Illinois routinely ranks among the top states for deer-vehicle collisions, with thousands reported annually.
Police encouraged drivers to remain alert, particularly on rural or wooded stretches of road. “Let’s all drive safely out there,” the department wrote in its safety message.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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