Drivers and fleets are being warned about the rise of wildlife on local and rural roads as we enter autumn.
‘Rutting season’ means that deer are on the move more, which has resulted in a significant increase in deer collisions in recent years.
In fact, there have been 34% more reports of deer collisions since 2021, with more than 1,000 already reported up until the end of August 2025, with that figure set to rise significantly during autumn.
Wildlife heading for shelter and entering mating season, in tandem with colder and wetter conditions on the road, pose additional road safety hazards for drivers to be aware of.
The report specifically focuses on the figures relating to deer because collisions with deer often result in significant damage to vehicles due to the sheer size and weight of the animal.
But the reality is that the sight of wildlife in the road can cause drivers to brake suddenly or swerve to avoid hitting any animals, which can become a serious road safety issue for all road users.
Authorities, including the police and National Highways, hope that by raising awareness of the increased presence and danger of deer and other wildlife on the road, they can ensure drivers are more prepared and take additional precautions.
