I have hunted in the deep south for 50+ years. Cotton Mouths, Timber Rattlers, and Copperheads are definitely here. And Diamondback Rattlers far south Alabama too. Even came across a Coral snake many, many years ago in SE Louisiana. Truly coming within striking range of a viper has to be rare. But caution is the word !

I can count on one hand the number of times I have known that I have accidentally come close enough to be struck by any of these. I am guessing there have been several times that I have not known how close I really was !!

I would not be "scared" ... just be cautious. Snake bite resistant boots are a good idea. Here's other things that I do in order to reduce my chances of being bitten.

Never step directly across a log or large rock. Step up on it and peer at the underside of the other side before you step off. Snakes like to hang in the crease where the log/rock meets the ground. If I am going to set up using a tree(s) as a hide, I look very carefully all around the base before taking a seat. I have found several snakes, including the one Coral snake, coiled up at the base of trees. And when I jump a creek, I make darned sure I am not jumping onto Mr. No Shoulders. I avoid tromping through brush piles too. Realistically there is no 100% way to not encounter these creatures. Most are so well camouflaged that you'll walk right by one and never know it was there. I guess the closest I have ever come to being struck was a "miss" by a Cotton Mouth. I was easing through a wet bottom flat and stepped across about a 2 1/2' long moccasin. He struck and missed ... and had only a slim second chance unless he could have hit a moving target !!! I used to be a fine "pulling guard" ... and am pretty sure I never made a move like that even when I was 20-21 !!