While it is no longer peak deer season in Georgia, the deer are still plenty active, as two Chattooga County Residents discovered over the past week.

Deputies responded to, two separate calls regarding motorist versus deer accidents last week. No one was injured, though both vehicles sustained minor damage.

Peak season for these type of accidents in our area is around mid-November, although there are multiple reports of accidents throughout the fall, winter and spring. Georgia is listed as a high-risk state for deer collusions according to multiple studies, with the average repair costing around $5,000.

There are some tips to avoiding deer collisions:

• Be extra attentive in the early morning and evening periods.
• Gradually brake to avoid hitting a deer; do not swerve since this may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Slow down if a deer crosses the road ahead of you. Deer often travel in groups and others may be nearby.
• Stay alert and slow down in areas where deer crossing signs are posted. These indicate locations of frequent deer activity.
• Watch the shoulder of the road. Be alert for deer standing along the shoulder as they may suddenly move into the roadway. Slow down and sound your horn to scare them away.