NewsChannel5.com | Nashville News, Weather & SportsDeer-Related Crashes Spikes In Fall

Deer-Related Crashes Spikes In Fall

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - October trough December is the worst time for deer-related crashes, according to the Tennessee Department of Safety.

During deer mating season, the animals are more active.

In 2007, there were 5,104 deer-related crashes, including 257 that involved injuries and one that was fatal; in 2006, it was 5,839. Since 2003, deer-related crashes in Tennessee have risen almost 17 percent.

There were 578 deer versus car crashes in October 2007 and 870 in November. Deer-hunting season begins in November, which is the worst month for deer-related crashes.

During peak mating and hunting seasons, motorists should expect to see more than one deer if they see one cross a road. Motorists should also be attentive at dawn and dusk.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol also warns motorists not to overcorrect to avoid a deer because that could lead to serious accidents.

"It's amazing even at 40, 50 miles per hour what a 200-pound deer can do to a car," said Lt. Tony Barham, adding that striking the animal can total one's vehicle.

A woman in Montgomery County died after she crashed her motorcycle while trying to avoid hitting a deer.