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ALBANY, GA -- Deer collisions account for an average of 44,000 vehicle accidents and eight fatalities each year in Georgia and cause 1.1 billion dollars in property damage nationwide.

A series of deer-related accidents in Albany is sparking concerns about the safety of our local roadways.

"Last night between 1800 and 30 hours, we had four traffic accidents involving deer," said Zane Dooley of the Dougherty County Police Dept.

Those collisions are likely only an omen of things to come.

"In November and especially here in Southwest Georgia in the early part of December, the bucks are in rut, the does are in heat," said Ben Kirkland of the Parks of Chehaw. "Deer, quite often, are running anywhere and not paying attention."

And the quest for a mate is not dependent on the moon and the stars.

"A buck could be chasing a doe any time of day or night and quite often, those does are running from the buck or maybe a buck is chasing another buck out of his territory," said Kirkland.

Even with so many deer being so active, there are some simple steps you can take to help keep yourself safe. First, in case there is a collision, remember to buckle up.

Slow down when you enter rural areas, especially when you see deer warning signs.

At night, use your headlamps – they can often discourage deer from trying to cross the road.

Finally, if you do see a deer, do not slam on your brakes or swerve dramatically.

Try and brake slowly but also do whatever is possible to stay on the road – even if it means hitting the deer.

Unfortunately, a collision is sometimes unavoidable.

"You don’t always hit the deer," said Kirkland. "Sometimes, the deer literally runs into your vehicle."

"In Southwest Georgia," added Dooley. "We’re never completely immune from traffic accidents involving deer."