November will see daylight savings time ending in Utah. This change leads to many people having to take evening commutes during lower-visibility hours in the months ahead. During the fall, there is an increase in wildlife along the roadways, primarily due to big game animals migrating to lower elevations in search of food. The migration period for deer is typically April and May, and then again in October and November, which is also when the highest number of vehicle and deer collisions occur in Utah. This year there have already been over 4,000 deer/vehicle collisions. Here are some tips from Wild Aware Utah to help avoid wildlife collisions: Be especially alert at dawn and dusk. Heed wildlife crossing signs. These signs are usually placed in areas known to have a high volume of wildlife/vehicle collisions. Be alert on roadways near wooded, agricultural and wetland areas and also near lakes and streams. Scan both sides of the road as you drive. Invite passengers to help watch for wildlife. Do not drive distracted. Put away food, phones and other distractions. When possible, use high-beam headlights to better illuminate the road.
