The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division advises motorists in both urban and rural areas to be extra cautious of deer and wildlife sightings this fall. Although the rate of deer-vehicle collisions has decreased in recent years, the fall breeding season is considered the peak time of year for deer-related collisions.

A reduction of the statewide deer population from a high of 1.4 million to the present population of approximately 1 million through regulated hunting combined with driver awareness likely has contributed to the decreased rate of deer-vehicle collisions.

“Hunting is oftentimes mistakenly blamed for deer-car collisions when in reality, regulated hunting offers the most effective and economical tool for managing deer populations,” said Don McGowan, WRD senior wildlife biologist. “Deer are on the move due to a variety of reasons.”

One such reason is breeding season. Deer breeding season occurs between October and early December. Male deer go into rut and begin actively searching for mates. This greatly contributes to the increased movement of deer, bringing them across roads.

Rush hour for most commuters tends to fall during the same hours in which white-tailed deer are most active — at dawn and dusk.

The division advises drivers of the following:
• Unpredictable: Always remember deer are wildlife and therefore, unpredictable. A deer calmly standing on the side of a road may bolt into or across the road rather than away from it when startled by a vehicle.

• One deer usually means more: Take caution and slow down when a deer crosses the road in front of you or another vehicle. Deer generally travel in groups, so if one crosses, be prepared that others may follow.

• Time of day: As deer are most active at dawn and dusk, they typically are seen roadside during the early morning and late evening — the same times most people are commuting to and from work.

• Time of year: While many deer-car collisions occur in early spring and late summer, when natural food sources are scarce, the fall breeding season is also a peak time for such accidents. Road shoulders generally provide green food both during extremely dry times of the year and following a long, hard winter. Given Georgia’s extended drought situation, drivers should be on the lookout for deer.

• Minimize damage: If a deer or other animal runs in front of your car, slow down as much as possible to minimize damage – resist the urge to swerve to avoid the deer, this may cause further damage, either sending you off the road or causing a collision with another car. If an accident occurs, alert the police as soon as possible.

The division encourages motorists to be extra cautious when on the road this season, especially at night when sight distance is limited. For more information on deer-car collisions in Georgia or to learn more about white-tailed deer or deer season, visit www.georgiawildlife.com, contact a local Game Management office or call (770) 918-6416.