Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency Sgt. Jeff Roberson is advising motorists to adhere to the motto, “Don’t veer for deer.”

Motorists should be even more vigilant for deer crossing roadways at this time of the year. While deer are generally seen mostly at twilight, this month and next they are likely to be spotted out and about at all hours due to it being mating season. When you see one deer bound across the roadway, there’s a good possibility more will be following.

The best advice from TWRA is to not swerve to avoid contact with deer as this could cause the vehicle to flip or veer into oncoming traffic, causing a more serious crash. Swerving can also confuse the deer as to where to run. TWRA advises when you spot a deer to slow down immediately and proceed slowly when passing.

If you do collide with a deer, never approach the animal as they are powerful and can cause bodily harm to a human. 

Report any deer collision, even if the damage is minor. In order to process a deer-car crash, an insurance company will require proof that the accident actually involved a deer.

Call the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to further document the incident, even though this is not legally required. Move the vehicle as far off the road as possible and dial *847. The call will be connected to the nearest THP communications center, and a state trooper will be dispatched to the location.

Tennessee law allows deer killed in a collision to be taken and used for food as long as you contact the nearest Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency regional office and report the accident within 48 hours.

 Franklin County is in Region II of the TWRA District. The Region II office can be reached by calling 615-781-6622 or toll-free at 1-800-624-7406. For a list of TWRA regional offices, visit the website at tnwildlife.org.