The post-harvest time means rural drivers are sure to encounter deer on the roadways.

Piatt County Sheriff Mark Vogelzang indicates with the crop out of the ground, the habitat for deer is greatly reduced so he is encouraging drivers on almost any road to be mindful of the increased deer movement.

One other component driving the increased movement in the deer population is the hunting season is underway. Sheriff Vogelzang is imploring safety among hunters.

For drivers, Sheriff Vogelzang encourages keeping an eye on the side of the roads for deer that may jump out. Heavily wooded areas become a popular place for deer to hide in the fall and winter months.

With falling leaves, authorities also remind wet leaves can also create slick conditions on roadways as well.