It seems that the number of deer killed by motorists on Georgia byways is increasing every year.  Consequently, those of us that have yards bordering these thoroughfares have an ever-increasing chance that one of these unfortunate animals struck by a motorist will end up on our front lawn.  If this happens to you, do you now is responsible for its removal?

       After living along a highway for a half century my wife and I recently had to deal with this problem.  We found a mature doe white-tailed deer stretched across our driveway.  The first thing we had to do was find out if a government agency would remove the unfortunate animal.  After searching for information online and making several phone calls we finally had an answer. 

       If your property borders a state highway, the Georgia Department of Transportation will remove the animal if it is on its right of way.  This is the 40 feet of land that runs parallel to the centerline of the highway.  The removal of a deer located beyond the right of way is the responsibility of the landowner.  Therefore, if the deer is on the state right of way, you need to call the GDOT office in your county for assistance.  These offices are listed on the GDOT website.

       If your property borders a secondary road, you need to check with the municipal or county road department responsible for the maintenance of the roadway.  Based on our limited research concerning such roads, we found that the rules governing the removal of dead deer found along such highways vary from county to county.

       I hope you never have to face this unpleasant task.  However, if you do, perhaps this information will make the job a little easier.