State Police Report Spike In Car-Deer Crashes, Urge Drivers To Exercise Caution

State police on Wednesday reported a rise in the number of car-deer accidents in Aroostook County, and urged drivers to use extra caution while traveling.

Troopers have responded to a significant number of accidents involving deer over the past few weeks in The County, state police said in a Wednesday news release.

The release said there have also been reports of deer being struck by vehicles and left in the roadway.

Troopers urged motorists to use extra caution while traveling, especially at night, when there's reduced visibility and more deer activity along the roadways.

"It’s the time of year that deer are gathering in the fields and woods along the roadways and crossing busy roadways while they herd together and search for food," the release said.

Troopers said car-deer accidents have been reported throughout The County, especially along I-95 in the Sherman/Island Falls area and Route 1 in the Littleton/Monticello area.

Motorists are encouraged to use slower speeds at night and also pay close attention to the sides of the road, where there may be deer activity.