Fall in Central Oregon means deer and elk migration season. Be on the lookout for animals traveling from mountain summer range to lower-elevation winter range.

The Oregon Department of Transportation has built several wildlife undercrossings along U.S. Highway 97 between Bend and Gilchrist. These crossings have reduced vehicle collisions with cars significantly, but deer and elk are still at risk during fall breeding season and as they seek their winter ranges.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife recommends a few things to avoid a collision:

• Be extra attentive around sunrise and sunset. Use extra caution in areas with signs warning about possible wildlife presence.

• Be cautious in areas with high vegetation on the side of the road, which could obscure approaching wildlife.

• If you see one animal, watch for others nearby.

• If an animal approaches the roadway, slow down and don’t swerve. Many serious crashes result from losing control after swerving.

If you do hit an animal on the road:

• Move vehicles out of the roadway and maintain visibility.

• Alert local law enforcement or Oregon State Police (call *OSP, or *677, for non-emergency dispatch).

• Document vehicle damage for insurance claims.