Deer Season in Central Arkansas: How Cabot Drivers Can Avoid a Deer Collision

If you commute on Highway 67/167, drive the back roads toward Austin and Ward, or head out to the deer camp on weekends, you've probably noticed more deer near the road lately. November is peak time for deer movement in Arkansas. The fall rut has bucks chasing does, hunting season has deer on the move, and since the time change, more of your drive happens in low light. Here's how Cabot-area drivers can stay safe.

When and Where to Watch for Deer

• Dawn and dusk: Deer are most active in early morning and around sunset, right when many people are commuting.
• Edges of woods and fields: Stretches where the road runs between timber and open fields or along creeks are common crossing spots.
• Near deer crossing signs: They're there for a reason.

Deer often travel in groups. If you see one cross, slow down and expect more to follow.

How to Lower Your Risk

• Slow down on rural roads in low light. Lower speeds give you more time to react.
• Use your high beams when there's no oncoming traffic, and watch for eyeshine along the shoulders.
• Stay focused. Put the phone away and keep scanning the roadside.
• Keep your headlights clean and aimed correctly. Hazy or misaligned lights make it harder to spot deer in time.
• Everyone buckles up, every trip.

If a Deer Steps Out: Brake, Don't Swerve

Swerving to miss a deer can put you into oncoming traffic, a ditch, or a tree, which can be far more dangerous than the deer itself. Brake firmly, keep a steady grip on the wheel, and stay in your lane. A long blast on the horn may help move the deer along.

Pickups and SUVs sit higher and weigh more, but a deer can still do serious damage to the grille, hood, radiator, and headlights. Ford Co-Pilot360 features like Pre-Collision Assist and Auto High Beam, available on many Ford models, can help, but they're designed mainly to detect vehicles and pedestrians and may not detect animals. Stay alert and keep both hands on the wheel.

A note for truck owners: grille guards and brush guards are popular in deer country, but they can affect airbag sensors, front cameras, and parking sensors on newer vehicles. If you're considering one, ask our parts or service team about options that are compatible with your Ford.

What to Do If You Hit a Deer

1. Pull over safely and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Check everyone for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt or the road is blocked.
3. Keep your distance from the deer. An injured animal can be dangerous.
4. Report the crash to local police or the Arkansas State Police. A report can help with an insurance claim.
5. Take photos of the damage and the scene.
6. Check your vehicle before driving. Look for leaking fluid, broken lights, a hood that won't latch, or loose parts. If in doubt, call for a tow.
7. Call your insurance company. Animal collisions are often covered under comprehensive coverage, but check your policy.

Get Your Ford Checked at Red River Ford

Even a small hit can damage parts you can't see, like the radiator, cooling fans, headlight assemblies, or the sensors and cameras your driver-assist features rely on. Our service team can inspect your Ford and help you get back on the road safely. Schedule service online or call 501-843-3536. We're at 2040 W Main St. in Cabot.

Good luck this season, and stay safe on the road.