New State Farm® data reveals fewer animal collisions, but autumn months remain most dangerous

State Farm has released new data estimating 1.7 million auto insurance claims in the U.S. from animal collisions from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, a slight decline from 1.8 million the previous year. Deer-related incidents accounted for more than 1.1 million of these claims.

The report also indicated that U.S. drivers faced odds of 1 in 139 of being involved in an animal collision—an improvement compared to last year’s 1 in 128 national average.

Top States for Animal Collisions

1. West Virginia (1 in 40)
2. Montana (1 in 53)
3. Wisconsin (1 in 58)
4. Michigan (1 in 61)
5. Pennsylvania (1 in 62)

West Virginia continues to be the riskiest state for animal collisions and has held the top spot for more than a decade. Pennsylvania reported the highest number of estimated industry claims (147,000), followed by Michigan (approximately 126,000), North Carolina (88,000), Texas (86,000), and Ohio (80,500). All states experienced a slight decrease in claims compared to the previous year.

Top 5 Animals Involved in Animal Collisions

1. Deer
2. Unknown
3. Rodents
4. Dogs
5. Racoons

Similar to previous years, deer once again led as the top animal struck, followed by unknown, rodents*, dogs, and raccoons.

Autumn Months Pose Highest Risk

The months of October, November, and December continue to be the most dangerous for animal-related collisions, accounting for an estimated 650,000 incidents. These three months alone made up 41% of all animal collision claims.

States with Lowest Odds of Animal Collisions

1. Nevada (1 in 966)
2. Hawaii (1 in 907)
3. The District of Columbia (1 in 794)
4. Alaska (1 in 661)
5. Arizona (1 in 577)

Animal Collision Safety Tips

• Slow down. Reduce your vehicle's speed and maintain a constant lookout for animals. Travel at a speed that will allow you to stop in time if an animal comes into the beam cast by your headlights
• Use extra caution. Slow-down in known animal crossing zones.
• Dusk to dawn are high-risk times; use high beams when appropriate.
• Scan the road and avoid swerving when you see an animal. Brake firmly when you notice an animal in or near your path but stay in your lane. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or lose control of their cars.
• Always wear your seatbelt.

After-Crash Tips

• Move your vehicle to a safe place: Pull to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
• Call police: If an animal is blocking traffic and could be creating a threat for other drivers.
• Document: Take photographs of the road, your surroundings and damage.
• Stay away from the animal: A frightened, wounded animal could use its legs and hooves to harm you. Do not attempt to move an animal.
• Don’t assume your vehicle is safe to drive: Look for leaking fluid, loose parts, tire damage, broken lights and other hazards.
• Contact your insurance company: Quickly file your insurance claim. Comprehensive coverage 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.