GEORGIA — Truck drivers hauling freight across Georgia should expect more deer on and near the road as the fall breeding season, known as the rut, ramps up, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources says. The end of daylight saving time is also pushing more driving into the dark hours when deer are most active.
The rut generally runs from October through late December, with activity extending into January in some areas. Bucks travel more actively in search of mates, which raises the chances that deer will cross roadways.
Peak dates vary by county. Some coastal and south-central counties see peak activity in mid-October, many counties peak in early November, and parts of southwest Georgia can peak in late December. Drivers can check local dates on the Georgia DNR rut map at georgiawildlife.com/rut-map.
Why It Matters for Truckers
Deer are most active around dawn and dusk, when visibility is limited. With daylight saving time ending, early-morning and evening runs now fall more often in darkness, so many truck drivers will be on the road during peak deer movement. A deer standing near the shoulder can suddenly run into traffic, and a loaded tractor-trailer needs far more distance to stop than a passenger car.
Safety Tips From Wildlife Officials
- Slow down in wooded areas and other places where deer are common, reduce distractions, and watch both sides of the road.
- Expect more than one deer. If one crosses the road, others may follow, since deer often travel in groups.
- If a deer is near the road, be prepared to stop.
- If a collision is unavoidable, brake firmly and stay in your lane. Swerving can send a vehicle off the road or into oncoming traffic, and for a truck it can mean a jackknife or rollover.
- If a crash occurs, alert police as soon as possible.
Deer collisions can happen at any time of year, but the fall breeding season makes extra caution especially important.
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