Deer-related crashes prompt safety warnings for Middle Georgia drivers

The Jones County Sheriff's Office reports more than 20 deer-related crashes this year as deer become more active.

GRAY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- As temperatures drop and hunting season gets underway, deer are becoming more active across Middle Georgia, increasing the risk of crashes for drivers.

The Jones County Sheriff’s Office says it has responded to more than 20 deer-related crashes so far this year.

Lieutenant Casey Carr says Highway 44, Highway 22 and Gray Highway are common areas for these accidents. He urges drivers to stay alert, especially during the early morning and late evening hours.

If a deer suddenly jumps in front of a vehicle, Lt. Carr says drivers should avoid swerving or slamming on their brakes.

“You don’t want to swerve. You don’t want to slam on brakes, because if you swerve you could potentially run off the road, overcorrect, you could crash. You could also hit someone else. Slam on brakes, you might have someone hit you at that point,” Lt. Carr said.

He says deer are also more active during the rut, when male deer chase females.

The impact of these crashes is also being seen at local businesses. Amber Ruff, Owner and Manager of Stan’s Body Shop in Gray, says they currently have about six vehicles on their lot damaged after hitting deer.

“Right now, we’ve got probably about six of them here on the lot. Of course, I’ve got more that have hit deer, but they’re drivable vehicles, and they just haven’t brought them in yet,” Ruff said.

Ruff says some of the damage has been severe enough that vehicles were declared total losses.

The Sheriff’s Office advises drivers who hit a deer to pull over to a safe location, turn on their hazard lights and call 911.