Drivers must slow down to prevent deer accidents

The picturesque area north of Berkhamsted is one of the UK’s black spots for accidents involving the animal.

Collisions rise during this time of year because deer are more active during the autumn rutting season.

A number of measures have already been put in place to reduce accidents on the countryside roads, including a warning sign that is activated when deer are close to the highway.

In 2005, there were more than 120 collisions involving deer within one year on the Ashridge Estate.

But a public awareness campaign by the National Trust, Chilterns Conservation Board and local authorities, has slashed this figure to an average of around 70.

Trust property manager Graeme Cannon said: “We are heartened by this reduction but accidents are still common and the need for vigilance is as great as ever, particularly at this time of year.”

Across the UK there are 74,000 collisions involving motorists and deers every year.

Motorists are advised to drive with caution through the area and dim vehicle headlights if there is a deer in the road, as full beam may cause the animal to freeze rather than retreat.