Drivers in Gedling borough issued deer warning after increase in reports of collisions in rural areas

Drivers in Gedling borough are being warned to take extra care after a recent increase in collisions involving deer in rural parts of the area.

Nottinghamshire Police say they have seen an increase in collision reports and are urging drivers to do what they can to protect wildlife, themselves and other road users.

The British Deer Society estimates that around 40,000 deer are killed or injured on UK roads each year, adding that collisions increase in May as the animals search for new territories.

The force is urging drivers to proceed with care during the month of May and to pay especially close attention in areas where existing warning signs exist, or where deer – alive or dead – have been spotted.

Chief Inspector Chris Sullivan, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “Hitting a deer can be a distressing, expensive and potentially dangerous experience for motorists. These are large animals that can cause considerable damage to vehicles and even more serious accidents when drivers swerve to avoid them. I have seen with my own eyes the aftermath of these incidents and they can be very distressing for officers to deal with.

“Clearly accidents will happen when wild animals are forced to cross busy roads, but there are things drivers can do to minimise the risks posed by deer. So if you are driving in a rural area of the county please do think about the possibility of deer emerging from the side of the road and lower your speed accordingly. This is especially important at night or wherever you see existing warning signs for deer.

“Although we can’t hope to avoid all incidents we are keen to do all we can to safeguard these animals and to prevent more serious accidents that may result in deaths or serious injuries on our road. I am sure that the vast majority of road users will share those aspirations and I thank them in advance for their co-operation.”

If you hit a deer you should pull over to a safe place with your hazard lights on and call the police, giving as precise a location as you can. The What3Words app will always allow for an exact location to be given. Drivers are advised not to approach an injured deer in case it tries to flee and causes another accident.