State Farm, Georgia DNR warn of rise in deer collisions

ATLANTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Insurance claims for animal collisions reach their peak in the fall, and the time change over the weekend means tens of thousands of people in metro Atlanta commute to and from work in the dark.

“We tend to see more deer collision claims in the fall,” said Roszell Gadson, a spokesman for State Farm Insurance.

Gadson and State Farm have tracked deer collisions in Georgia for more than 20 years.

Over the past year, Georgia moved from 9th to 8th in the country in animal collisions. Deer are one of the most common animals involved.

“We are seeing neighborhoods spread farther and farther out,” Gadson said, adding that incursions into more forested areas bring drivers into contact with wildlife at a higher rate.

AAA reports that more than 50,000 deer collisions take place in Georgia each year. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says most happen immediately after the end of daylight saving time.

DNR gives two main reasons for the post-time change spike. First, it is the rut, also known as deer mating season. Second, the time change means commuting in the dark in the evenings.

DNR says most collisions happen between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. and again between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.

“If you do see an animal coming into the roadway, make sure that you do not swerve,” Gadson said.

Gadson said the risk of hitting another car or leaving the road is often more dangerous than hitting the deer. He suggested slowing down as a better option and watching for posted deer crossing signs.

“Be aware,” Gadson said.