State Farm estimates more than 1.8 million auto insurance claims involving animal collisions were filed between July 2023 and June 2024, according to a press release.

Deer remained the top animal struck by drivers followed by rodents, the release says. The data also included information from other types of rodent-related claims, such as causing vehicle damage by chewing through wires.

Dogs, raccoons, and coyotes also were struck at a high level, the release says.

In order, the most dangerous months for animal collisions were November, October, and December, State Farm says.

“A paved, rural road with little traffic and low light is a common scenario to hit wildlife,” the release says. “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, increases the chance of an animal collision by 23%.”

West Virginia remained the riskiest state for animal collisions with odds of 1 in 40, the release said. It has held the top spot for more than a decade.

Montana is the second riskiest state (1 in 54) followed by Michigan (1 in 59), Pennsylvania (1 in 61), and Wisconsin (1 in 63), according to the release.

While chances may be lower in Pennsylvania, it led with the highest number of claims (150,000), the release said. Michigan was second at 131,000 followed by North Carolina (98,000), Texas (92,500), and Ohio (82,500).

State Farm provided consumer-focused tips on how to avoid and 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 an animal is struck, the first step is to check the well-being of everyone in the vehicle. The driver should call 911 if the animal is large and still on the road. Drivers should then check if the vehicle is drivable. If the situation is safe, the driver should take pictures, if needed, and file a claim.

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