Keep eye out for deer and other wildlife near roads, officials say

SALT LAKE CITY—Wildlife officials are asking people to, as always, keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife during their Memorial Day travels.

Faith Heaton Jolley with the Division of Wildlife Resources says deer-related car crashes happen a lot more often around their mating season in the Fall. However, there’s still a good chance to see them near roads in the Spring.

“It’s not totally uncommon for people to still see deer…or possibly a dead deer on the side of the road,” Heaton Jolley said.

Heaton Jolley said many are still trying to get back up the mountains as the snow melts.

Authorities confirmed a deer played a big part in what led up to a triple fatal crash on I-15 in Farr West on Wednesday. Authorities said a car hit a deer and was blocking the right lane before a semi hit it from behind.

Heaton Jolley said deer roam all over the Beehive State, but they are commonly found in areas like Highway 6 and the intersection of I-80 and I-84.

Advice to avoid deer and other wildlife

Some tips for avoiding crashing into wildlife:

• Keep a close eye out for wildlife in wooded areas or those with wildlife crossing signs.
• Be extra careful around dawn and dusk when deer are more active.
• At night, use your high beams for better vision and possibly catch the reflection of some animals’ eyes.
• If you do see an animal in the road don’t swerve. Slow down, stay in your lane, and wait for it to pass. You can also try honking your horn.

Heaton Jolley said if you do hit an animal, move off the road, put on your hazard lights and call for help. Officials don’t recommend people try to move a wounded animal.

Officials also remind people not to throw trash or food outside of their cars, since it’s illegal and can attract animals to the roads.

Read more:

• UHP urging drivers to be more focused after fatal crash near Farr West
• New deer crossing tech will alert drivers when wildlife is nearby