Fewer Deer Equals Fewer Collisions Caused by Deer in South Carolina

Records show that collisions between vehicles and deer in South Carolina are declining.

The State in Columbia reports that a review by South Carolina public safety officials shows that vehicles and deer collided more than 2,200 times in 2014. That figure is down by more than 200 from 2012.

The reduction in collisions is likely because fewer deer live in South Carolina. Officials estimate about 750,000 deer live in the state today, compared to more than 1 million 15 years ago. State officials say the state allows more hunting and more predators exist now, mainly coyotes.

State deer biologist Charles Ruth says collisions persist on “the fringes of the suburbs,” areas were farms and forests have been developed for homes and stores.