In Marshall, MN, a deer detection and warning system reduced number of deer/vehicle crashes by 56 percent.
Date Posted
05/18/2011
Identifier
2011-B00688
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2009 ITS Annual Report Minnesota Department of Transportation Office of Traffic, Safety and Technology ITS Section

Summary Information

The Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Section of the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) Office of Traffic, Safety and Technology (OTST) performs research, demonstrations, and operational tests of ITS transportation solutions. The annual report of the Mn/DOT OTST ITS Section’s funded activities for fiscal year July 1, 2008 through June 30, 2009 presents:

  • Technology Development Projects that develop innovative solutions to present day-to-day problems.
  • Operational Tests and Demonstrations that test the functionality, benefits, and costs of new or emerging technologies in real-world environments.
  • Technology Deployment Projects that place technology solutions in the hands of travelers and transportation professionals, to benefit users on a daily basis.
It is estimated that there are over 35,000 deer/vehicle crashes (DVC) yearly in the state of Minnesota resulting in 3 to 11 deaths, over 400 personal injuries, and close to 4,000 reported property damages of one thousand dollars or more. A Deer Detection and Warning System was installed on TH 23 along Camden State Park, about 12 miles south of Marshall, MN in an attempt to reduce the number of deer/vehicle crashes. The system consists of two different parts; first a method to detect deer, and secondly to activate a flashing beacon on a standard deer sign to warn motorists of the possible danger so that they can slow down and check the right of way.

Results:

The benefits of the Deer Detection and Warning System were as follows:

  • Reduced the number of deer/vehicle crashes in a troublesome location by 56%
  • Testing the system resulted in fewer crashes, and fewer potential deaths, injuries, and property damage.
Goal Areas
Deployment Locations