MO Statehouse

State officials are warning drivers in Missouri to beware of deer crossing roadways.

They are more active in the fall, which is their mating season.  Fall harvests and hunting also contribute to deer being more mobile this time of year.

Data collected by the insurance company State Farm for its 2010-2011 survey period ranks Missouri 19th in the nation for most deer strikes – down from 17th the prior year.  Missouri State Highway Patrol Captain Tim Hull says the metro areas of St. Louis and Kansas City have the most deer strikes.

Missouri Democratic Party Chairwoman Susan Montee says she plans to run for lieutenant governor next year.

Montee said Friday she has been trying to recruit strong Democratic candidates for offices and believes she has the best chance of winning the lieutenant governor's office being vacated by Republican Peter Kinder.

Kinder has said he will not seek re-election and is instead considering a run for governor.

Montee served as state auditor for four years before losing re-election last year to Republican Tom Schweich.