The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says that it is that time of year when Lawrence County and area drivers need to be extra watchful for deer crossing the road. It is mating season for deer plus deer hunters are in the fields which means an increase in their activity. It is a good idea to be alert when driving. There were more than 15,000 collisions between cars and deer reported across Illinois last year. 630 people were injured and 8 people died.