UPDATE: A startling 16% increase in deer collisions has been reported just one week after the recent time change, prompting urgent warnings for drivers across Colorado. Experts are urging heightened vigilance as the shift to standard time coincides with seasonal weather changes, elevating road hazards significantly.
Authorities, including the Colorado Public Interest Research Group, emphasize that the time change pushes peak traffic hours into dusk and early evening—when deer are most active. Rachel Jaeger, an associate with the group, highlights the risks: “Their internal clocks don’t change just because we change our external clocks. They’ll be out and active during the early evening hours.”
According to the research, drivers face a staggering 14 times greater likelihood of hitting a deer in the two hours after sunset compared to the two hours preceding it. In Colorado, the majority of wildlife-vehicle collisions involve deer, raising alarm for motorists navigating these treacherous conditions.
Shoshana Lew, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), stresses the importance of infrastructure in mitigating these accidents. “A properly placed wildlife crossing can reduce these collisions by as much as 90%,” she stated. Colorado currently boasts 75 wildlife crossings, with more projects in development, including the upcoming Greenland Wildlife Crossing, set to be the largest in the world.
While these crossings, paired with wildlife fencing, have proven effective, Lew urges drivers to remain alert. “We love living amongst nature, and we must drive in a way where we recognize that our neighbors are not just other drivers, but the animals who reside here as well,” she said.
As conditions change, authorities warn that sudden weather shifts can further increase driving hazards. Safety recommendations include avoiding distractions, using headlights at all times, reducing speed, and increasing following distance—especially during sunrise and sunset. Drivers are also advised to look for the bright, reflective eyes of animals along roadways and, when possible, to opt for public transit.
With the rise in deer activity and the potential for accidents, experts are calling for immediate attention to road safety. This urgent update serves as a critical reminder for all drivers to exercise caution during this high-risk period.
Stay tuned for further updates and safety tips as we continue to monitor this developing story.
