Monroe County sees heightened number of animal-related crashes

Monroe County has seen a significant increase in animal-related vehicle crashes, placing it second only to Orange County in New York for the most crashes involving animals, primarily deer. According to a recent AAA report, animal collisions are the fifth most common cause of accidents in the state, with peak incidents occurring in fall and early winter. Monroe County recorded 1,517 such incidents in 2022, the highest since at least 2018.

AAA advises drivers to take extra precautions during October through December when deer are more active, particularly near sunset. Recommended safety measures include driving at the speed limit, scanning road shoulders and wooded areas, and, if a crash seems unavoidable, braking firmly rather than swerving to prevent more severe accidents. With animal-related crashes occurring every 15 minutes in New York, AAA stresses that awareness and careful driving are key to reducing these collisions.

Source: Rochester First