BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ — Drivers in Berkeley Township are being urged to stay alert behind the wheel as new crash data reveals the community is among the top five Ocean County municipalities for deer-related vehicle accidents.

With November marking the peak of deer collision season in New Jersey, the combination of increased deer activity, shorter daylight hours and busy commuter traffic is creating potentially dangerous conditions on local roads.

According to data analyzed by Injuries Cases Autos using New Jersey Department of Transportation police crash records, Berkeley Township recorded 141 animal-related crashes during 2023 and 2024.

That puts Berkeley fourth among Ocean County municipalities for animal-related vehicle collisions.

Berkeley Ranks Among Ocean County’s Top Five

The latest figures identify the following communities as having the highest number of animal-related crashes in Ocean County during 2023 and 2024:

1. Manchester Township – 247 crashes
2. Toms River – 207 crashes
3. Jackson Township – 184 crashes
4. Berkeley Township – 141 crashes
5. Barnegat Township – 121 crashes

Animal-related collisions accounted for approximately 10.2 percent of all crashes in Berkeley during the two-year period, according to the analysis.

November Is the Most Dangerous Month for Deer Collisions

The timing of these accidents is no coincidence.

New Jersey’s deer mating season typically runs from mid-to-late October through mid-December, according to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

During this period, deer become more active, frequently moving across roadways in search of mates.

The risk increases further after daylight saving time ends, when more commuters are traveling during the same early morning and evening hours when deer are most active.

In Ocean County, the highest concentration of animal-related crashes occurs between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. during November, according to Injuries Cases Autos.

The Garden State Parkway was also identified as the roadway with the greatest number of animal-related crashes in the county.

Officials Warn Drivers About the Dangers

New Jersey environmental officials are reminding motorists that collisions with deer can result in serious vehicle damage and potentially life-threatening injuries.

Dave Golden, assistant commissioner of NJDEP Fish & Wildlife, has emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and understanding how to reduce the risk of a collision.

Even a seemingly minor encounter with a deer can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles or collide with other traffic.

How to Stay Safe on Berkeley Township Roads

Motorists can take several precautions to reduce their chances of hitting a deer:

• Slow down: Reduce your speed when driving through wooded areas and locations marked with deer-crossing signs.
• Watch the roadside: Pay attention to the shoulders of the road, not just the pavement ahead.
• Be extra cautious at dusk and dawn: These are particularly active periods for deer.
• Never assume there is only one deer: If one crosses the road, others may follow.
• Avoid sudden swerving: Swerving can cause you to lose control or collide with another vehicle or roadside object.
• Wear your seatbelt: Always make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained.

If a collision becomes unavoidable, braking firmly while maintaining control of the vehicle is generally safer than making a sudden evasive maneuver.

A Warning for Berkeley Residents

With deer activity increasing throughout Ocean County, drivers in Berkeley Township should be especially cautious during evening commutes and nighttime travel.

Whether traveling along Route 9, Route 35, local neighborhood streets or the Garden State Parkway, motorists should remain alert and prepared for unexpected wildlife crossings.

The latest numbers serve as an important reminder that deer collisions are not just a rural-road problem. They are a growing concern throughout New Jersey, including right here in Berkeley Township.

As November continues, slowing down and staying alert could help prevent a dangerous encounter on the road.