From the second half of July until mid-August, the deer, our largest and most widespread big game species, mates. This period requires particular attention from motorists, as these animals are much more active than at other times of the year and can be more frequent on roads, which significantly increases the risk of accidents!
The deer population in Hungary is estimated at 379 thousand animals, and this species can be found in all regions. During the mating season, which is known in hunting parlance as the rut, the deer chasing each other are more active, more careless and may even run out on the road in broad daylight. It is no coincidence that more than 5,800 deer (78%) are killed in almost 7,500 big game collisions, a significant proportion of them during this period (data for the 2021-22 hunting year, source: National Wildlife Data Repository).
The National Hungarian Hunting Protection Association, as the representative body of organisations involved in game management, asks motorists to drive more carefully than usual in the coming weeks! A large number of accidents can be prevented if drivers keep the following points in mind:
- Don't just drive with extra attention on the section of road marked with a wildlife danger sign during the sale!
- On road sections with poor visibility or in poor visibility conditions slow down!
- If you see a deer running across in front of you, expect to see followed by another! Slow down, maybe honk the horn!
- If it is unavoidable that the animal is hit, emergency brakes, do not jerk the steering wheel! If they drift into the lane or off the road, they could cause an even more serious accident.
A fender bender is considered a road accident, so if it happens, you must call the police! Any further action may be based on the police report. The organisation with the right to hunt in the area - typically a hunting organisation - must also be notified, usually by the police.
