AAA: Vehicle-animal collisions peak in Autumn [Video]

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Autumn is a peak time for vehicle-animal crashes on roadways. 

According to AAA, October, November and December are peak months for animal-related crashes, and is the first most common factor in crashes in New York. 

AAA cites Traffic Safety Management & Research (ITSMR) data that shows more than 35,000 animal-related crashes occurred across the state  in 2023. Of those crashes, more than 1,500 resulted in a injury and nine deaths. 

AAA recommends motorists to be extra cautious as deer crashes often happen in the dark. 

“Drivers should always be on the lookout for hazards on the road, but the danger of wild animals increases in the fall season,” said Elizabeth Carey, director of public relations at AAA Western and Central New York …