RICHMOND, Va. (AP) _ Motorists are being urged to stay focused and alert as deer mating season is creating deadly road hazards in Virginia. AAA Mid-Atlantic says thousands of deer-related crashes take place across the state each year, resulting in fatalities, injuries, and costly vehicle damage. According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles more than half of all deer-related vehicle crashes happen between the months of October and December. Last year, the most Virginia deer-vehicle crashes occurred in Loudoun and Fauquier counties.The auto club is telling motorists to buckle up and reduce speed, be alert and observant, and be on the lookout for groups of deer. AAA also says to slow down and brake instead of swerving.