Our Opinion: Oh, deer! Be watchful for whitetails

White-tailed deer are among nature's most graceful creatures.

They also are among motorists' greatest hazards this time of year.

October and November coincide with increased deer movement because it is the animals' mating season and people's hunting and harvesting season.

Col. Ron Replogle, superintendent of the Missouri Highway Patrol, encourages drivers to remain alert, pointing out that 3,498 vehicle crashes involving deer - or about one every 2.5 hours - were recorded in the state last year. And, although no motorists suffered fatalities, 303 injuries and much damage to vehicles resulted.

Drivers are reminded:

• Most accidents involving deer occur between the hours of 5 p.m. and 7 a.m.

• Deer typically travel in groups, If you see a single deer crossing or near a road, chances are other deer are in the area.

• Deer crossings may be more frequent near streams or wooded areas surrounded by farmland.

• Be mindful that deer don't confine their movements to rural areas. In 2013, 26.4 percent of the traffic crashes involving deer happened in urban areas.

The patrol advises drivers not to panic when they see deer. Overreacting usually leads to more serious traffic crashes.

And remember, seat belts and child restraints have proved their value as safety devices in collisions, including those involving deer.

This is the time of year when extra caution may spare damage to your vehicle and injuries to yourself and passengers, as well as the life of deer.