09/10/2026
🚗🦌 DEER ON DORSET'S ROADS🦌🚗
|| A message from Dorset Police: ||
As we enter deer rutting season, drivers across Dorset are being reminded to stay alert, particularly during dawn and dusk when deer are most active.
During the autumn months, deer become more unpredictable as they search for mates and establish territories. This can lead to an increase in deer suddenly entering roads, often with little warning.
✅ If you see one deer, expect more – they often travel in groups.
✅ Slow down in areas with deer warning signs, woodland, heathland or rural roads.
✅ Use full beam where safe to improve visibility, but dip your headlights if a deer is on the road.
✅ Do not swerve suddenly to avoid a deer, as this can lead to more serious collisions.
If you are involved in a collision with a deer:
📞 Call 999 if there are injuries or the collision is causing a danger to other road users.
📞 Call 101 to report an injured deer or if the animal is obstructing the highway.
By taking a little extra care, we can help keep Dorset’s roads safe for motorists, cyclists, motorcyclists and wildlife alike.
