There were over 17,000 deer-related crashes in Wisconsin in 2024. Where did most of the crashes occur?

Yahoo! News - May 9th, 2025

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has issued a warning for drivers to be extra cautious during the spring months, as deer-related crashes typically surge during this period. The increase is attributed to deer, particularly does, searching for birthing locations. In 2024, Wisconsin recorded over 17,000 deer-related crashes, resulting in nine fatalities and 708 injuries. Tim Carnahan, Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent, emphasized the importance of drivers staying alert and watching the road's edges for any sudden deer movements. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources notes that areas with large deer populations and high traffic are most at risk.

The significance of this warning lies in the potential for reducing accidents and saving lives. With approximately 1.8 million deer in the state, the risk of collisions is significant, especially in counties like Waukesha and Washington, which reported the highest number of incidents. To mitigate these risks, authorities recommend wearing seat belts, driving cautiously in forested areas, and staying particularly alert during dawn and dusk when deer are most active. In the event of a collision, drivers should follow safety protocols, including contacting local authorities for deer removal and ensuring their vehicle is safely off the road.

Road Safety Traffic Accidents Wisconsin Department Of Natural Resources Wisconsin Department Of Transportation Deer Related Crashes Tim Carnahan Wisconsin State Patrol Deer Population

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RATING

8.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article effectively addresses the issue of deer-related crashes in Wisconsin, providing valuable safety advice and relevant statistics. It scores highly in terms of accuracy, source quality, and public interest, thanks to its reliance on credible sources and timely focus on a seasonal hazard. The article is clear and accessible, making it easy for readers to understand the risks and precautions associated with deer-related crashes. However, it could benefit from a more comprehensive exploration of the broader implications and potential controversies surrounding the topic. Overall, the article serves as a useful resource for raising awareness and promoting safety among drivers in Wisconsin.

Accuracy

The article provides a generally accurate overview of the issue of deer-related crashes in Wisconsin, supported by data from credible sources like the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The claim that there were over 17,000 deer-related crashes in 2024 is consistent with available statistics. However, the article does not provide a complete list of the top 10 counties for deer-related crashes, which could be an area for further verification. The article accurately states the seasonal increase in crashes during May and June due to deer behavior, aligning with expert insights. However, additional context on the distribution of the deer population across counties could enhance the factual depth.

Balance

The article maintains a balanced perspective by focusing on factual information and safety guidelines without evident bias. It provides insights from authoritative sources like the Wisconsin DOT and DNR, ensuring a well-rounded view of the issue. However, the article primarily focuses on safety tips and crash statistics without exploring other perspectives, such as the impact on wildlife conservation efforts or economic implications for the state. Including these viewpoints could offer a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, concise language to convey important information about deer-related crashes and safety precautions. The inclusion of direct quotes and specific statistics enhances the clarity of the content. The article effectively organizes information into sections, making it easy for readers to follow. However, the article could improve clarity by providing more detailed explanations of certain terms, such as 'erratic' deer behavior, to ensure all readers fully understand the content.

Source quality

The article cites reputable sources, including the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and the Department of Natural Resources, which are authoritative on the topic of deer-related crashes and wildlife management. The use of these sources enhances the credibility and reliability of the information presented. The article also includes a statement from the Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent, adding an expert opinion to the narrative. The reliance on official data and expert insights underscores the article's strong source quality.

Transparency

The article is transparent in its presentation of data and expert opinions, clearly attributing information to the Wisconsin DOT and DNR. It provides specific statistics and expert advice, allowing readers to understand the basis of the claims made. However, the article could improve transparency by explaining the methodology behind the crash statistics and providing more context on how the deer population estimates are derived. This additional information would help readers better assess the reliability of the data.