Express Lane - Watch for deer during longer, cooler nights

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View the Express Lane video for the October 15 edition.

Don't let a deer in the headlights ruin your night

Watch for wildlife movement on Missouri roadways

Cooler, longer nights mean deer are on the move. In 2025, Missouri drivers experienced more than 2,800 crashes involving deer, with six deaths and 435 injuries reported, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Most deer strikes with vehicles occur during October and November between the hours of 6-7 a.m. and 6-9 p.m. An annual report from State Farm ranked Missouri 15th in the country for deer-vehicle collisions last year.

MoDOT reminds motorists to be prepared and never drive distracted. Here are some safety tips for avoiding collisions with deer and other wildlife:

As always: Buckle Up. Phone Down. Make sure to wear your seat belt, follow the posted speed limit and drive sober.
Stay alert and avoid distractions no matter where you are traveling. Rural areas are not the only places where vehicle strikes occur.
Don’t swerve to avoid hitting an animal. Swerving can cause you to lose control and travel off the road or into oncoming traffic.
Deer rarely travel alone. If you see one crossing, keep an eye out for more.
Don’t follow too closely. Remember that the driver in front of you might have to stop suddenly to avoid hitting a deer.

MoDOT maintenance crews work to address any animal debris in the driving lanes. Individuals can report an animal carcass in the roadway to MoDOT by calling 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or by using the Report a Road Concern form on the MoDOT website.

MoDOT crews conduct annual winter weather operations drill

This year's winter weather drill was held Oct. 13-15. This training event tasked the approximately 3,000 MoDOT employees involved in winter weather response with reacting to a simulated forecast of significant snow across the state. Snowplow operators were deployed to their trucks to get familiar with their routes, emergency communications systems were tested, and equipment was inspected and calibrated for safety and efficiency. Learn more.

Traveler Information Map mobile app receives updates

From checking active work zones in your area to monitoring road conditions during winter weather, MoDOT's Traveler Information Map is a vital tool for planning every trip. The map app, available for iPhone and Android, was just updated with new features. Additions include lines marking the beginning and end of work zones, blue icons noting future work zones and adjustable color schemes for winter road conditions.

Teen drivers have a license to practice safe driving habits

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens aged 15-18. Teen Driver Safety Week encourages teens and their parents or guardians to talk about traffic laws, driver's education and dangerous driving behaviors. These include alcohol and drug use, not wearing a seat belt, speeding, and driving while drowsy or distracted, especially with other passengers. Teens learn by example so remember to be a good driving role model.

MoDOT promotes safety across Missouri for 10th BUPD Day

The 10th annual Buckle Up Phone Down Day will occur Oct. 28 with a focus on two key things motorists can do: Buckle up every trip and put the phone down when behind the wheel. This year, MoDOT and the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety will host media events across the state and collaborate with high schools, area businesses and safety partners to raise awareness, enthusiasm and engagement for the BUPD movement.