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When and where are you most likely to hit a deer in Denmark?

Season, time of day and the deer warning sign

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Short answer

More than 40,000 larger animals are hit on Danish roads every year, mainly deer. Spring is the peak season, and deer are also very active in autumn. The risk is highest at dusk and in the dark on roads through forest, green areas and farmland, and a warning sign with a deer marks places with many crossings. Deer weigh between 20 and 180 kg, which makes them the most dangerous animals to hit.

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Why

  1. Deer often move in groups, so one can mean more.
  2. Shining eyes in the verge are an early warning.
  3. A heavy deer can do serious damage to a car.

Details

At 60 km/h a large red deer of up to 180 kg hits a car with about the force of a five-tonne elephant.

Tip

Ease off the accelerator on forest roads at dusk, and keep extra distance to the car ahead, since it may brake suddenly.

What may differ

Animals can also appear by the road in open countryside, not only where the warning sign stands.

Common misconception

Many drivers think swerving hard is the best way to avoid a deer.

What actually happens

The advice is not to swerve suddenly or brake very hard, as that can cause a worse accident.

People also ask

  • What should you do if you hit a deer in Denmark?
  • What does the deer warning sign mean in Denmark?
  • When does it get dark in Denmark in winter?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Traffic rules, fines and fees can change, so check the Danish authorities before you drive.

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