Deer are on the move throughout Illinois as the peak deer mating season is underway, and two state agencies caution drivers to stay alert for the animals.
The Illinois Department of Transportation and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources say deer movement increases during the last three months of the year.
IDOT reported more than 14,000 crashes involving deer in the state in 2025, with 677 causing injuries including seven deaths.
Sangamon County recorded 355 crashes involving deer last year, the fourth highest in the state.
The agencies recommend scanning the road for eye shine, slow down if you see a deer since they travel in groups, and avoid swerving into opposite lanes or off the road.
