Fall harvest, deer rut add new hazards for Kansas drivers

TOPEKA (KSNT) – Kansas drivers are being warned to be extra cautious this fall as new threats emerge on the state’s highways.

Motorists face new dangers in Kansas during the fall season. The arrival of the annual deer breeding season, also known as the rut, and the fall harvest mean there are more large vehicles and animals traveling across roads.

Nearly 40% of all crashes involving a single vehicle come due to a collision with a deer, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation. Five people lost their lives and another 674 were injured in 2024 alone due to vehicles hitting deer in Kansas.

“Serious crashes are more likely to occur when drivers swerve to avoid a deer, as this can lead to loss of vehicle control, departure from the roadway or collisions with oncoming traffic,” said Kansas Highway Patrol Lieutenant Chad Crittenden. “It is often safer to brake firmly and stay in your lane.”

KDOT reports that deer are usually encountered at dawn and dusk. Drivers can expect to encounter multiple deer at once as they are known to travel in groups.

“Even in areas with fewer deer, seasonal habitat changes and mating can bring deer onto roads at any time of day or night,” said Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Big Game Program Coordinator Levi Jaster. “Drivers should be especially cautious at dawn and dusk and stay attentive in areas with good deer habitat. Slowing down and remaining alert are the best ways to avoid a collision.”

The KHP also encourages people to share the state’s roadways with farmers. Drivers may see farmers traveling around the state in large vehicles like trucks, tractors and combines that take up a large amount of space on the road and travel at slow speeds.

“Always remember to share the road, be patient, be cautious, and be a courteous driver. Being a safe driver can help keep yourself and our Kansas farmers safe!”
Kansas Highway Patrol social media statement excerpt

The KHP, KDOT and others recommend that drivers be extra cautious when traveling around Kansas this fall. They recommend keeping the following safety tips in mind:

• Fall harvest
  • Slow down if you see the orange/red slow moving vehicle symbol.
  • Increase your following distance.
  • Be patient – do not assume the farmer can easily and safely move aside to let you pass.
  • Use extra caution when passing – never pass if you are approaching a curve, bridge, hill, intersection or railroad crossing.
• Deer
  • Be attentive at dawn and dusk.
  • Be alert and reduce speeds near woodland areas and water sources.
  • Keep an eye out for deer crossing signs – these indicate places where high numbers of deer collisions have occurred in the past.
  • Do not swerve as this can cause your vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic, run off the road, hit objects or overturn.
  • Use bright headlights when there is no oncoming traffic – deer’s eyes often reflect light.
  • If possible, move your vehicle to the shoulder of the roadway after a collision and call law enforcement.
  • Put your vehicle’s hazard lights on and keep your seat belt fastened after a crash.
  • Contact your insurance company to report damages.

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