Wisconsin motorists, watch out: Deer crashes are on the rise this time of year.
Deer activity in Wisconsin tends to increase in May and June as deer look for places to give birth and young deer leave their mothers, meaning more deer are crossing the roads, according to the state Department of Transportation.
In 2025, there were 17,795 deer-related crashes in Wisconsin, resulting in 720 injuries and six deaths. That includes 223 deer crashes involving motorcycle drivers, leading to four deaths and 80 serious injuries. That means 38% of deer crashes involving a motorcycle resulted in a death or serious injury.
“Drivers should have their full attention on the road ahead to avoid deer crashes,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said in a news release. “Deer are unpredictable, often changing directions and freezing as they cross the road. Motorists should be alert and prepared to respond at all times.”
How to avoid hitting a deer
Deer are most active in the early morning and evening, so using headlights is important. Deer also tend to travel in groups, so when one crosses the road, be prepared for more to follow. Drive slowly when approaching a deer because they are unpredictable. Wear a seatbelt and stay off your phone and free of other distractions while driving. If you are going to hit a deer, brake firmly and stay in your lane. Don’t swerve unless you are on a motorcycle, and even then, only swerve if you can stay in your lane.
What Wisconsin counties had the most deer crashes in 2025?
These Wisconsin counties had the most deer crashes last year, according to the DOT:
What to do if you hit a deer
Call 911 if someone is hurt or if the deer is in a busy stretch of road. Stay in your car and wait for help. Never attempt to move an injured deer.
If nobody is hurt and both the deer and your car are off the road, report the crash. The local highway department or sheriff can get rid of a dead deer.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: What counties in Wisconsin have the most deer crashes? See the totals
Reporting by Blaise Mesa, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
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