The Ohio State Highway Patrol is warning motorists to remain alert during peak deer season after more than 1,300 deer-related crashes were reported in Mercer County over a five-year period.

Data from the Patrol’s Ohio Statistics and Analytics for Traffic Safety dashboard show 1,303 deer-related crashes occurred in Mercer County from 2021 through 2025. That averages more than 260 crashes each year.

During the same period, Auglaize County recorded 1,690 deer-related crashes. Allen County had 2,526, Paulding County recorded 1,324 and Van Wert County had 1,034.

Statewide, the Patrol reports 111,359 deer-involved crashes since the beginning of 2021. Forty-nine of those crashes were fatal, resulting in 50 deaths.

Motorcycles were involved in just one percent of deer-related crashes but accounted for 82 percent of the fatal crashes.

The Patrol typically sees an increase in deer-related crashes during November because of peak deer breeding season and the end of daylight-saving time. Deer are most active between sunset and sunrise, especially around dawn and dusk.

Drivers are advised to reduce their speed, eliminate distractions and scan both sides of the roadway. If a collision is unavoidable, motorists should brake firmly and remain in their lane instead of swerving.

Following a crash, drivers should move safely off the roadway, contact law enforcement and avoid approaching an injured deer. Crashes may be reported by calling 911 or the Ohio State Highway Patrol at #677.