The Tennessee Highway Patrol is warning motorists about deer-related crashes during the fall and winter.
THP Colonel Tracy Trott is urging drivers to be aware and cautious in areas where deer are found.
Trott says the chances of striking deer are considerably higher during hunting and mating season, especially in November. There were almost 6,000 deer-related crashes in 2012.
The THP says motorists should not swerve to avoid contact with deer.
Swerving could cause the vehicle to flip or veer into oncoming traffic, causing a more serious crash.