New State Farm® data reveals the likelihood of hitting an animal while driving in every state

Data released from State Farm pegs the odds of U.S. drivers hitting an animal at 1 in 128 this year, down slightly from 1 in 127 last year.  

As the largest insurer of cars in the U.S., State Farm estimates over 1.8 million auto insurance claims involving animal collisions were filed across the industry from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024. 

Deer once again led as the top animal struck, followed by rodents*, dogs, raccoons and coyotes.

The most dangerous months for animal collisions are, in order, November, October and December.

A paved, rural road with little traffic and low light is a common scenario to hit wildlife. Results from a State Farm Survey indicate between 30% and 50% of drivers had accidents during those conditions. Additionally, just one risky driving behavior, such as speeding or using your phone, increase the chance of an animal collision by 23%.

West Virginia remains the #1 riskiest state with odds at 1 in 40. West Virginia has held that spot for more than a decade.

Montana is next with (1 in 54), followed by Michigan (1 in 59), Pennsylvania (1 in 61) and Wisconsin (1 in 63).

Pennsylvania had the highest number of claims out of all the states, with more than 150,000 claims. Michigan is second in terms of highest claims counts with approximately 131,000. It is followed by North Carolina (98,000), Texas (92,500) and Ohio (82,500).

Here are some important tips to help avoid and/or handle an animal collision:
 

• Slow down, especially if you see an animal close to the road. Speed is the greatest safety factor in the magnitude of damage and physical injury.
   
• Stay alert. Scan the road for animals at any time of the day or night.
   
• Pay attention to “deer crossing” and other animal signs.
   
• Reduce distractions. Put the cell phone away.
   
• Brake, as necessary. If you can avoid hitting the animal, reduce your speed, honk your horn and tap your brakes to warn other drivers.
   
• Don't swerve. If a crash with an animal is inevitable, maintain control of your vehicle and don't veer off the road.
   
• Use high beams. Flicking your high beams on wildlife may cause the animal to scurry away.
   
• Be aware of peak season. Animal crashes, especially deer, happen most often during October through December, which is hunting and mating season.
   
• Watch for animals on the road between dusk and dawn.
   
• Watch for herds. If you see one deer, there are probably more nearby.

If despite all of this you hit an animal, take a deep breath. Make sure you and your passengers are well. Call 911 if the animal is large and still there after you hit it. Check if your vehicle is drivable. When safe to do so, take pictures and, if needed, you can file a claim in multiple ways.

Speak with your State Farm agent about comprehensive coverage, which typically covers repairs for collisions with animals, after your deductible.

*Rodents are not only involved in collisions, but included in claims data as an animal related loss for damage they cause to vehicles, like chewing wires.