NatureScot has expanded its annual road safety campaign to cover a longer section of the A9 in Sutherland to cut down on deer vehicle crashes. The move comes after new data showed higher risks in the Navidale area north of Helmsdale, with electronic signs set to warn drivers from November 1 to 29.
Reasons Behind the Autumn Risk Surge
Red deer in Scotland start moving from high moorland to lower pastures in fall, which raises the chance of road collisions. This seasonal shift happens as stags seek better food after the rutting season, often crossing busy routes like the A9 at dawn and dusk.
Shorter days after the clocks go back make things worse, as peak driving times overlap with when deer are most active. Local feedback and recent research spotted 88 red deer along the road in one night, highlighting the urgent need for action in this spot.
Experts note that deer numbers have grown over the last 50 years, while traffic has nearly doubled. This mix creates more danger on trunk roads in the north Highlands.
The Expanded Campaign Details
The campaign now stretches nine miles from Lothbeg to Ord of Caithness, up from shorter sections in past years. NatureScot teams up with Transport Scotland and BEAR Scotland to place fixed and mobile electronic signs along the route.
These signs will flash messages urging drivers to slow down and watch for deer. Speed checks will happen during the month to enforce safer habits.
This buildout follows community input and fresh studies on collision hotspots. Officials aim to gather data on how well the signs work, which could shape future efforts across Scotland’s roads.
Shocking Statistics on Scotland’s Roads
Deer vehicle collisions claim thousands of animals and cause real harm to people each year. Since 2016, about 1,850 such crashes happen annually in Scotland, with estimates suggesting up to 9,000 when underreported cases count in.
The Highlands lead with the most incidents, but other areas face issues too. Here’s a breakdown of reported deer vehicle crashes from 2008 to 2021 by region:
| Region | Number of Incidents |
|---|---|
| Highlands | 555 |
| Argyll and Bute | 369 |
| Dumfries and Galloway | 161 |
| Central Scotland (various) | Emerging hotspots |
On the A9 stretch from Lothbeg to Ord of Caithness, 20 collisions occurred in 2013 alone, dropping to about six per year since then. Deer culling to manage populations plays a role in these numbers, yet risks remain high in autumn.
These figures come from police reports, road teams, and wildlife groups, showing a steady rise tied to more deer and cars on the move.
Driver Safety Tips to Avoid Collisions
Staying safe on roads like the A9 means being ready for sudden deer crossings. Simple steps can prevent accidents and save lives, both human and animal.
Here are key tips for drivers in deer-prone areas:
- Slow down at dawn and dusk, when deer are most likely to appear.
- Scan both sides of the road and use high beams if no traffic is coming.
- If you spot deer, brake firmly but do not swerve, as this risks hitting oncoming vehicles.
- Watch for groups, since one deer often means more nearby.
- Report any collision to police, even if minor, to help track patterns.
Following these can cut risks and make drives through scenic Sutherland smoother. Recent events, like a spike in spring crashes earlier this year, remind us vigilance pays off.
Wider Implications for Wildlife and Roads
This campaign ties into bigger efforts to balance wildlife protection with safe travel in Scotland. With deer populations at around one million, up from 1990 levels, managing their impact on roads grows vital.
Projects like the A9 dualling include deer fences and underpasses to ease crossings. NatureScot’s ongoing monitoring helps spot trends, such as rising incidents in central areas beyond the Highlands.
These steps not only protect drivers but also support deer welfare, as crashes injure or kill thousands yearly. As climate shifts alter migration patterns, expect more such initiatives to keep roads reliable and nature thriving.
Drivers, have you faced a close call with deer on Scottish roads? Share your stories in the comments below and spread the word by sharing this article to help others stay safe this autumn.
