It can happen anywhere: a driver injures himself, totals his car and takes an innocent life.

While not all accidents are avoidable, DeKalb County Sheriff Roger Scott has offered some advice to prevent car versus deer accidents.

Scott said drivers should be especially mindful of deer this time of year. Deer are entering their “rut,” or mating season, and become much more active, primarily early in the morning and about nightfall.

Farmers contribute to deer activity as well. Farmers spook deer out of the field as they work to take in the harvest. Additionally, deer without standing crops or summer foliage to hide in are more likely to run when threatened.

Roadways with high deer traffic generally are indicated by deer crossing signs, Scott said.

“Otherwise, they’re near wooded areas or fields,” he said.

The whole county could be described as an area prone to deer accidents, he said. Each year, Sheriff’s police handle about 177 deer-related accidents, according to a county press release.

Some drivers choose to place deer whistles on their cars, Scott said.

“It’s a tool we use on all our vehicles. We have had very few accidents for the past few years after we put them on,” he said.

The whistles are thumb-sized and attach easily to vehicle bumpers, and create a high-pitch whistle at speeds over 30 mph, the sheriff’s office said in a press release. They have a range of about 400 yards and are supposed to warn deer of an approaching vehicle.

If you do see a deer, slow down and drift to the center of the road if safe to do so. In the middle of the road, you will have more room to maneuver.

When faced with an unavoidable accident, remain calm and keep control of your vehicle. Don’t put human lives in danger by swerving at high speed. Few deer collisions are fatal to people.