Deer-Vehicle Collisions and Accidents: Facts and Statistics

With over two million annual collisions, deer-vehicle accidents peak in November and at dusk, with West Virginia facing the highest risks. Stay alert and know how to respond to prevent damage, injuries and costly repairs.

By Nathan Paulus

Edited by Venus Zoleta

Updated: January 17, 2025

Advertising & Editorial Disclosure

A deer crosses a busy highway full of vehicles.

Colliding with a deer isn’t just a rural driver’s concern — it’s a growing issue affecting millions of drivers annually. Over two million deer-vehicle collisions happen each year in the U.S., causing $10 billion in damage, 59,000 injuries and 440 fatalities. These accidents peak during autumn evenings, especially in November, when deer activity is highest.

Stay alert during dusk and dawn when visibility is low to reduce risks. Brake safely without swerving. After hitting a deer, document the scene and understand your insurance coverage to help manage the aftermath.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Deer-vehicle collisions peak in November, with claims reaching as high as nearly 14 per 1,000 insured vehicle years in 2021. Most accidents occur at dusk and dawn during mating season when deer activity increases and visibility decreases.
West Virginia has the highest collision risk (one in 40), followed by Montana (one in 54) and Michigan (one in 59). Nevada is the safest state, with a low risk of one in 834.
In high-risk areas, slow down, watch for movement near wooded roads and use high beams at night for better visibility. If a deer crosses your path, brake firmly and stay in your lane to avoid losing control.
If you hit a deer, move your vehicle to a safe location, document the scene with photos and contact law enforcement if the deer is blocking the road or causing a hazard.
File an insurance claim promptly, providing photos and detailed accident information. Comprehensive insurance typically covers deer collisions, but review your deductible and policy terms to understand the financial implications.

States With the Highest and Lowest Risks for Deer (Animal) Collisions

Deer-vehicle collisions make up a large portion of animal-related crashes, and statistics by state show significant differences in risk levels.

In 2024, West Virginia held the highest risk for animal collisions, with drivers facing a one-in-40 chance of hitting an animal. Drivers in this state should remain cautious, particularly on rural roads and during peak activity times like dawn and dusk. Other states where drivers face elevated risks include:

Montana: One in 54
Michigan: One in 59
Pennsylvania: One in 61

Nevada has the lowest collision odds, with just a one-in-834 chance of an animal collision. Urban development and fewer wildlife crossings near major roads contribute to its low risk. States with some of the safest odds include:

Hawaii: One in 775
Alaska: One in 619
Arizona: One in 509

COMMON ANIMALS INVOLVED IN VEHICLE COLLISIONS

Animal-vehicle collisions in the U.S. most often involve deer, which can cause severe damage and injuries. Larger animals pose greater risks, while smaller ones can still lead to sudden driver reactions.

Here are the top animals most often involved in vehicle collisions:

Deer
Rodents
Dogs
Raccoons
Coyotes
Turkeys
Cattle
Birds
Squirrels

Most Dangerous Conditions for Deer Collisions

Deer collisions are most common in autumn, especially during deer mating season in late October to early December. The riskiest times of day are dusk and dawn, when low visibility coincides with peak deer activity. Full moon nights also see higher collision rates due to increased animal movement.

Most Dangerous Seasons

The risk of animal collisions increases significantly during autumn, particularly from late October through early December. This period coincides with deer mating season, also known as the rut, when deer are more active and move across roadways frequently.

Collision rates spike during this time, with November consistently recording the highest claims — around 13 per 1,000 insured vehicle years in 2020, 14 in 2021 and 12 in 2022. These figures are nearly three times higher than the lowest months, such as April 2020 (four) and August 2020 (four).

Most Dangerous Times

The time of day also plays a critical role in deer collisions. The highest risk occurs at dusk and dawn, as deer are most active during these twilight hours. Drivers' ability to spot animals is also diminished due to poor visibility during these times.

Another factor influencing collisions is the moon’s phase. Studies indicate that wildlife collisions increase during a full moon, as the brighter light encourages deer to move greater distances, making them more likely to cross roads.

How to Avoid a Deer Collision

Avoiding a deer collision requires understanding deer behavior, staying alert during high-risk times and effectively using modern safety features. Defensive driving and preparedness can also significantly lower the chance of accidents.

Learn deer behavior and peak activity times

Deer are most active at dusk and dawn, particularly during their mating season from late October through December. Watch for deer in wooded areas, near water sources or along highways that cut through forests. If you see one deer, slow down and scan for more, as they often travel in groups.

Reduce speed in risky areas

In high-risk areas such as rural highways, suburban roads near forests or agricultural zones, reduce your speed to 10 to 15 mph below the posted limit, especially at night. Slowing down not only increases your reaction time but also reduces the severity of potential collisions.

Watch for deer crossing signs

Deer crossing signs are placed based on historical collision data. Be extra cautious when you see these signs, especially on stretches of road with dense vegetation or tree lines close to the shoulder. Keep scanning the roadside for movement, even if no deer are immediately visible.

Use your vehicle’s lighting

Use high beams on dark, rural roads to improve your visibility, but only if there’s no oncoming traffic. Look for the reflection of deer eyes or their silhouettes on the road. Make sure your headlights are properly aligned to illuminate the road’s edges where deer are likely to appear.

Employ modern safety features

Activate your vehicle’s collision detection system and automatic emergency braking, if available. These features can detect animals crossing your path and apply the brakes automatically. If your car has adaptive headlights, use them to enhance visibility on curves and uneven terrain.

Avoid distractions

Distracted driving reduces reaction time, especially in deer-prone areas. Avoid multitasking and keep both hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Put away your phone, set up GPS directions before driving and limit conversations that distract you from scanning the roadside.

Keep a safe following distance

When driving behind another vehicle, maintain at least a three-second gap to give yourself time to react if the car ahead suddenly brakes for a deer. Increase this distance at night or in poor weather conditions when visibility is reduced.

Don't swerve

If a deer jumps into your path, brake firmly and remain in your lane. Swerving can cause you to lose control or collide with another vehicle. Even if hitting the deer is unavoidable, striking it head-on at a slower speed is safer than swerving off the road or into oncoming traffic.

Honk to deter deer

When a deer is near the road, use your horn with one long blast to scare it away. This is more effective than flashing your headlights, which can confuse or freeze the animal. Keep honking until the deer has moved away from your path.

What to Do if You Hit a Deer

Handling the aftermath of an accident involving a deer starts with prioritizing safety, assessing the situation and documenting the incident for your insurance claim. Take the right steps promptly to protect yourself, your passengers and your vehicle while simplifying the claims process.

1
Check for injuries
Immediately check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Look for signs of shock, bleeding or pain, even if the impact seemed minor. If anyone is hurt or unresponsive, call emergency services immediately and provide your exact location.
2
Move to safety
If your vehicle is drivable, carefully pull over to the side of the road or a safe area away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and prevent secondary accidents. If your car isn’t drivable, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened and hazard lights activated to protect yourself from passing traffic and warn other drivers until help arrives.
3
Stay away from the deer
Never approach an injured deer, as it may thrash or act unpredictably, increasing the risk of injury. Stay at a safe distance and allow authorities or animal control to handle the situation.
4
Call 911 and report the incident
Notify local law enforcement or wildlife authorities about the accident, especially if the deer is blocking traffic or poses a safety hazard. Be ready to provide details about your location, your vehicle's condition and any injuries. Reporting the incident may be required by law in some states, particularly if the damage is significant or the deer creates a roadway obstruction.
5
Assess vehicle damage
Once you’re in a safe location, inspect your vehicle for damage, such as broken headlights, windshield cracks or fluid leaks. Avoid driving further if the damage affects your vehicle's functionality, such as compromised brakes or impaired steering. If it's dark, use your hazard lights or a flashlight to check the car safely.
6
Document the scene
Take multiple photos of the accident scene, including damage to your car, the deer's position and any skid marks or debris. Include wide-angle shots of the surrounding road conditions and close-ups of the damage. This documentation is crucial for your insurance claim and proving the circumstances of the accident.
7
Contact your insurer
After documenting the scene, promptly inform your insurance provider about the collision. Share the photos and detailed information from the incident to expedite the claims process. Avoid delays, as timely reporting can help speed up repairs or replacements covered by your policy.

Auto Insurance After a Deer Accident

Verify your insurance coverage

Comprehensive car insurance generally covers damage caused by deer collisions, including vehicle repairs. However, if you have only liability or collision coverage, the damage may not be covered, as collision insurance applies only to accidents with other cars or inanimate objects. Confirm with your provider if your policy includes comprehensive coverage for wildlife-related incidents.

Understand the claim process

When filing a claim, be prepared to provide details such as the location, time and circumstances of the accident. Photos of the damage and accident scene can strengthen your claim. Your insurance company will review this information to determine coverage and initiate the repair or replacement process.

Know the impact on your premiums

Deer collisions are considered no-fault accidents and often don’t affect your insurance premiums. However, premium adjustments depend on your provider’s policies, state regulations and claims history, so it’s worth discussing this with your insurer.

Understand your deductible

Your deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance covers the remaining costs. For example, if your deductible is $500 and the repair costs $2,000, your insurance will pay $1,500. Reviewing your deductible in advance can help you budget for potential repairs and decide whether filing a claim is financially beneficial, especially for minor damage.

FAQ: Deer Collisions

Learning facts about deer collisions, along with effective safety measures, can help you minimize risks on the road. MoneyGeek answers some of the frequently asked questions to provide clarity and actionable advice on preventing and managing these incidents.

How many deer are hit by cars each day and each year?

Roughly 2.1 million deer-vehicle collisions occur each year in the U.S., meaning about 5,753 deer are hit by cars daily. These collisions result in more than $10 billion in economic losses annually, as well as 59,000 human injuries and 440 fatalities.

What state has the most car accidents involving animals?

West Virginia ranks as the state with the most deer accidents, among other animal collisions, with drivers facing a one-in-40 chance of a collision. Other states with high risks include Montana (one in 54), Michigan (one in 59) and Pennsylvania (one in 61). States like Nevada (one in 834), Hawaii (one in 775) and Alaska (one in 619) have the lowest risks.

When do most deer accidents occur?

Most deer accidents happen in autumn, especially during mating season from late October to early December. The highest risks are at dusk and dawn when deer are more active and drivers' visibility is lower. Due to increased deer movement, collisions are also more likely on full-moon nights.

Is it safer to hit a deer or swerve?

It’s generally safer to hit a deer than to swerve. Swerving can cause you to lose control of your vehicle and potentially collide with other cars, trees or barriers. Instead, brake firmly and stay in your lane. While hitting the deer may damage your vehicle, it’s usually less dangerous than the alternatives.

How do you navigate insurance after an animal collision?

After hitting a deer, contact your insurance provider to report the accident. Confirm if your policy includes comprehensive coverage, as this typically applies to deer collisions. Share details of the incident, including photos, and ask about the claims process. Depending on your state, you may also need to report the collision to law enforcement or wildlife authorities.

Is hitting a deer an at-fault accident?

No. Hitting a deer is usually classified as a no-fault accident because it’s considered unavoidable. Comprehensive insurance generally covers the damage, and these claims rarely affect your premiums. However, some providers and state regulations may have specific exceptions, so it’s best to confirm with your insurer.

What are the financial and legal implications of hitting a deer?

Repair costs from hitting a deer are typically covered under comprehensive insurance, minus your deductible. Some states require you to report the accident, especially if the damage is significant or the deer is blocking the road. Check local laws to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.