Illinois Roadside Dead Deer Taking Laws
Is anyone else scratching their head about a traffic accident law? It may be common knowledge in the hunting world. I cannot be the only person to question the story behind this law.
Deer are most commonly seen on Illinois roads in early fall. Why? Love season.
CHANCES OF HITTING A DEER IN IT
In a 2020 article, the odds of hitting a deer in the United States, in general, are 1 in 116. In Illinois, in particular, the odds are 1 in 148.
When it comes to deer killed by a motor vehicle, there is no limit to the number of deer that can be possessed.
If it is to be noted, any deer-related motor traffic accident should be reported to the appropriate law enforcement.
BUT WHAT ARE THE RULES?
Here are the laws on bringing a deer home after accidentally (?) Killing Bambi.
It is 100% legal to own a deer that has died along an Illinois highway. First, it must be reported, according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
An Illinois resident / motor vehicle operator involved in a vehicle-deer collision has priority to legally own a white-tailed deer killed / injured as a result of a motor vehicle collision.
If someone chooses not to take the dead deer in their possession, someone else can catch it, as long as they are eligible.
If the driver does not take possession of the deer before leaving the scene of the collision, any Illinois citizen who is not in default of child support may own and transport the deer.
Sorry visitors, non-residents of Illinois cannot claim a road kill.
There are laws regarding finding a dead or injured deer that is not related to a motor vehicle accident or a legal hunt. You can find information on everything here.