The Missouri State Highway Patrol is urging Missouri drivers to be more alert for deer on the roadways. Deer become more active this time of year. The behavior within the population changes due to mating season, as well as hunting and harvesting season. Last year, drivers in Missouri experienced 4,070 traffic crashes where deer-vehicle strikes occurred. The State Patrol says, trying to avoid a deer can result in a more serious crash involving oncoming traffic. If a person panics when they see a deer in the road it usually leads to serious wrecks. When drivers see deer they should slow down and proceed with caution and stay alert at all times. Passengers who are traveling with motorists are advised to always buckle up with seat belts and child restraints. The only 100 percent survivable traffic crash is the one that never happens.