As deer activity rises in Door and Kewaunee counties, so does the chance of encountering one on the road when you least expect it. According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, deer-related crashes account for about 14% of all traffic crashes statewide, totaling more than 17,000. Closer to home, Kewaunee County has already experienced 273 deer-related crashes, matching its total at this point in 2020 and nine more than at this time last year. Door County has recorded fewer deer-related crashes this year, with 324 compared to 466 at this point last year. Nearly two dozen deer-related crashes have occurred this week, something Door County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Kyle Veeser says is likely due to cooler temperatures and the start of the rut. He adds that it is important to remain vigilant while driving, especially around dawn and dusk.

If you hit a deer, Veeser says it is important to contact the Sheriff's Office so deputies can ensure the deer and any debris are removed from the roadway to keep other motorists safe. Deer-related crashes are also part of the reason the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Conservation Warden Chris Kratcha encouraged hunters last week to use all available tags associated with their licenses to help control the deer population.